]]>Press Releasenews-3574Mon, 30 Oct 2017 11:51:00 +0100Public Call for Proposals for Co-funding in Year 2018http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/3574/
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Official documentation in Slovenian languageGeneral Information

]]>Press Releasenews-3558Mon, 09 Oct 2017 11:05:00 +0200Slovenian youth from neighbouring countries hold conference in Rijekahttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/3558/
At the opening ceremony participants have been welcomed by Tin Kampl, president of the Youth...At the opening ceremony participants have been welcomed by Tin Kampl, president of the Youth Council, Under-Secretary Jelena Malnar from the Office for Slovenians Abroad, Zvonimir Stipetić, president of the Slovenian Home of KPD Bazovica, Boris Rejec, president of the Council of Slovenian Ethnic Minority in the City of Rijeka, Vasja Simonič, president of the Council of the Slovenian Ethnic Minority for the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, Verena Lelas Turak, deputy mayor of Rijeka, and a keynote speaker Slovenian Ambassador to Croatia dr. Smiljana Knez.

The conference has been attended by youth organisations from Slovenia, Italy, Croatia and Austria and it has been the second such event within the programme »Connecting« (Povezujemo) following the last years conference in Szentgotthard, Hungary.

The main theme of the conference has been communication and information sharing, whereas the participants have, through work in small groups and guided by the coaches Nina Milenković Kikelj and Urška Simonišek, identified challenges organisations face in relation to communication and information sharing internally and externally towards youth, other organisations and institutions.

Throughout the first day of the conference, the participants broke the ice with »get to know« games, evaluated current situation in the respective field, evaluated case studies and participated in a dialogue with a communication expert Sebastjan Jeretič. On the second day the participants have proposed solutions and prepared four final recommendations on such basis.

As the result of a two day intense work, the participants have presented four concrete ideas to the Minister for Slovenians Abroad Gorazd Žmavc that shall in long-term improve interaction between young people themselves as well as with their motherland, persuade young people to actively involve in Slovenian organisations in neighbouring countries, encourage »brain circulation«, ensure continuity of such events and establish a system of assigning and accepting responsibilities among older and younger members of the organisations. Minister G. Žmavc was positive on the youth's initiatives, expressed his support for projects such as this conference and encouraged the youth to use Slovenian cultural centres in the neighbouring countries for such purposes.

The participants expressed desire for continuance of such events and further socialization in the future.

]]>Press Releasenews-3529Thu, 10 Aug 2017 08:23:00 +0200The latest issue of Moja Slovenijahttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/3529/
http://www.slovenci.si/en/e-magazine/www.slovenci.si/en/e-magazine/]]>Press Releasenews-3525Thu, 20 Jul 2017 15:59:00 +0200Slovenia to finance model farm in Croatiahttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/3525/
Ljubljana, 19 July (STA) - The government plans to finance a model Slovenian farm in Gorski kotar,...Ljubljana, 19 July (STA) - The government plans to finance a model Slovenian farm in Gorski kotar, the mountainous western region of Croatia, in an effort to help the Slovenian community living there. The project will help keep youths in the area, farmer Zoran Ožbolt said as the financing agreement was signed on Wednesday.

"We want youths to stay in this area. I hope the project will succeed and thrive," Ožbolt said.

The project, valued at half a million euros, will be co-funded by the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry for Slovenians Abroad and is the second such effort after a model farm was launched in Felsoszölnök, Hungary, in 2015.

Minister for Slovenians Abroad Gorazd Žmavc said the project was the least Slovenia could do for its ethnic minority in the region and would help nurture good Slovenian-Croatian relations.

Agriculture Minister Dejan Židan said the model farm would help revitalise farmland in an area that is being overgrown with forest and would pursue three objectives: the development of animal breeding, meat production and education.

]]>Press Releasenews-3520Tue, 11 Jul 2017 10:14:00 +0200Government appoints new state secretary at the Office for Slovenians Abroadhttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/3520/
The Government of the Republic of Slovenia adopted at its session on 6 July 2017 a decree on the...

The Government of the Republic of Slovenia adopted at its session on 6 July 2017 a decree on the dismissal of the incumbent and the appointment of a new state secretary at the Government’s Office for Slovenians Abroad. As of 14 July 2017, the office will be held by Aleksandra Pivec, PhD.

Aleksandra Pivec, PhD, began her career as a young researcher at the Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology of the University of Ljubljana and a professional research assistant at the Scientific Research Centre Bistra Ptuj. She obtained a doctorate in chemical engineering. At the Scientific Research Centre Bistra Ptuj, she was active in the preparation, management and coordination of national and international development, scientific-research and application projects for 17 years and headed the institution as the director for six years. She was active in the designing of development strategies in various fields for various stakeholders in local and regional frameworks; in the preparation and management of science and development projects; and in the drawing up of publications and obtaining of EU funds.

Szentgotthard, 10 June - Minister for Slovenians Abroad Gorazd Žmavc opened a mini library in the Slovenian cultural and information centre in Hungary's Szentgotthard on Saturday and attended a traditional Slovenian heritage event hosted by the Association of Slovenians in Hungary.

Source: Sta.si

]]>Press Releasenews-3499Wed, 07 Jun 2017 13:50:00 +0200The latest issue of Moja Sloveniahttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/3499/
Moja Slovenija, June 2017Moja Slovenija, June 2017]]>Press Releasenews-3486Fri, 19 May 2017 13:55:00 +0200The latest issue of SINFO http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/3486/
http://www.ukom.gov.si/fileadmin/ukom.gov.si/pageuploads/Sinfo/Sinfo_2017/s3_web.pdf&nbsp;&nbsp;http://www.ukom.gov.si/fileadmin/ukom.gov.si/pageuploads/Sinfo/Sinfo_2017/s3_web.pdf]]>Press Releasenews-3484Fri, 19 May 2017 13:47:00 +0200Minister for Slovenians Abroad Gorazd Žmavc visits Pošta Slovenijehttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/3484/
The Slovenians Around the World series has also been backed by the Office of the Republic of...The Slovenians Around the World series has also been backed by the Office of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad. The majority of Slovenian diaspora live in Argentina, Canada, Australia, the US and Germany. The postage stamp dedicated to Slovenians in Argentina will be issued on 10 November.

Pošta Slovenije moreover continues to work on joint issues of postage stamps with foreign postal companies. The company has already invited the Argentinian postal company to jointly issue a postage stamp in 2018, while the image to be put on the stamp is yet to be decided upon.

Pošta Slovenije is connecting the digital and material worlds, but at the same time remains true to tradition, which also includes postage stamps. Since Slovenian independence in 1991, it has issued already around 1,200 postage stamps. Despite the geographical distance and cultural diversity between them, Slovenia and Argentina have close links, and the issuing of postage stamps is an excellent opportunity to promote both postage stamps and natural beauties of the two countries.

]]>Press Releasenews-3470Fri, 05 May 2017 11:04:00 +0200Minister Gorazd Žmavc: Young start-up entrepreneurs from neighbouring countries important for national consciousness and confidencehttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/3470/
&quot;National consciousness is also being strengthened through economic independence, which is why a..."National consciousness is also being strengthened through economic independence, which is why a successful economic activity of communities from neighbouring countries is as important as the strengthening of the national, linguistic and cultural identity of Slovenians living outside the borders of their home country. Young start-up entrepreneurs from neighbouring countries are especially important from this aspect, which is why we are enabling them this year, together with the organisers of the PODIM conference, to participate free of charge in the biggest start-up conference in the Alps-Adriatic region. We want to connect them with successful young entrepreneurs, experienced mentors and investors in start-up companies from Slovenia, the region and globally, and thus make a long-term contribution to progress of the entire Slovenian society," Minister Gorazd Žmavc, who heads the Office for Slovenians Abroad, said in an interview, this year directly addressing for the first time the target group of young, Slovenian-speaking founders, co-founders or members of start-up teams who live and work in Austria, Italy, Croatia and Hungary.

]]>Press Releasenews-2957Wed, 02 Apr 2014 15:10:00 +0200The Surveying and Mapping Authority of the Republic of Slovenia advises property owners to amend property data in Slovenia despite the repeal of the Real Property Tax Acthttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2957/
Real Property Tax Act came into effect on 1 January, 2014. The Constitutional Court repealed the Act...Real Property Tax Act came into effect on 1 January, 2014. The Constitutional Court repealed the Act on 28 March, 2014 on the basis of several clauses which were ruled unconstitutional. For the moment, tax regulations remain unchanged.

The Constitutional Court considered the legality of imposing tax and concluded that the proposed Mass Property Evaluation Act, which applies to mass property evaluation due to levying real property tax, is not in conformity with the Constitution.

After the announcement of judgement, Miroslav Mozetič, President of Constitutional Court, explained that the decision of the Constitutional Court does not mean that the Real Property Tax Act cannot be permissibly enforced in accordance with the Constitution. The coalition announced that the Government shall take reasonable measures, which is also expected from them by the European Commission.

Non-Slovene citizens who received informational real property tax notices in February 2014 are advised to amend property data.

What do I do when I receive a real property notice and an informational real property notice?

The notice, sent to you by the Surveying and Mapping Authority of the Republic of Slovenia (GURS) in mid-February, contains data on your properties, their general market value, informational data on tax rates and real property tax.

]]>Press Releasenews-2750Wed, 20 Feb 2013 11:33:00 +0100“MOJA SLOVENIJA”, the magazine for Slovenians abroadhttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2750/
The first issue of the magazine for Slovenians from abroad entitled “Moja Slovenija” is out. The...The first issue of the magazine for Slovenians from abroad entitled “Moja Slovenija” is out. The magazine published an interview with the Minister for Slovenians Abroad Ljudmila Novak, who spoke of her work during the one year mandate as a minister. There is also much about her visit to the Slovenian community in the USA, last November 2012.

The magazine is financed by the Government Office for Slovenians Abroad. Every month it will have an extensive interview with someone who is recognized for his/her work with Slovenians abroad and Slovene minorities in the neighbouring countries. Besides the interview there will be much about the Slovenian communities around the world and their contribution to the Slovenian culture and traditions.

]]>Press Releasenews-2749Tue, 19 Feb 2013 14:34:00 +0100The Council of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad met in Ljubljana http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2749/
The members of the Council are the members of organizations of indigenous Slovenian national...The members of the Council are the members of organizations of indigenous Slovenian national communities in the neighbouring countries who have rich experience in focusing on the development of the indigenous national communities in the neighbouring countries and the Slovenian ministers and state secretaries dealing with the issue of Slovenian minorities in the neighbouring countries.

At the meeting the Council discussed the key issues faced by the indigenous Slovenian national communities in the neighbouring countries and the starting points for the operation of the Council of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad in its new term of office. At the Council's meeting, a debate focused on the new challenges and priorities of the cooperation between Slovenia and the indigenous Slovenian national communities in the neighbouring countries. The next important step was upgrading policies and strategies that would provide solutions for new challenges in the fields of culture, language, science, economy, sports, intergenerational cooperation, youth and cross-border cooperation, in particular, in connection with drawing on European funds and cooperation between municipalities. Members of the organizations of indigenous Slovenian national communities in the neighbouring countries particularly emphasized that the successful development of the Republic of Slovenia is the best form of support.

After the meeting Prime Minister Janez Janša expressed his support for the creation of strong ties between Slovenia and Slovenians in the neighbouring countries. The minister Ljudmila Novak was happy that the meeting once again showed the desire to create a common Slovene cultural space.

]]>Press Releasenews-2747Tue, 19 Feb 2013 10:33:00 +0100Minister Ljudmila Novak visited the Slovenian community in the USA http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2747/
The official opening of the innovation office of CE PolimaT and the Slovenian-American Business...The official opening of the innovation office of CE PolimaT and the Slovenian-American Business Association in the Akron Global Business Accelerator took place on November 26, 2012. The event was featured by the attendence of a number of distinguished guests including Ms. Ljudmila Novak, the Minister for Slovenians Abroad, Ms. Mary Taylor, Lt. Governor of the State of Ohio, investors, local business partners, representatives of the University of Akron and representatives of the Austen BioInnovation Institute in Akron with whom CE PoliMaT will sign a Memorandum of Understanding. The Centre of Excellence for Polymer Materials and Technologies ensures the transformation of research excellence into products and services in high-tech niche markets, as well as supporting job creation and the transition to a low-carbon society. Following the opening of the innovation office of CE PoliMaT, the Minister Ljudmila Novak also launched a startup workshop for the Centres of Excellence for PoliMaT, BIK and EN-FIST, all partners in the COINVEST project. The workshop, taking place after the opening, was dedicated to the introduction of startup ideas to US investors and representatives of the Akron Global Business Accelerator (AGBA), the Akron BioMedical Corridor, the Greater Akron Chamber and the Austen BioInnovation Institute in Akron. The event was an excellent opportunity for the Centres to carry out a number of business and scientific meetings.

Besides visiting the state of Ohio the minister Ms. Novak visited the Slovenian community in the states of Minneapolis, Chicago, Pittsburgh, Milwaukee and also stayed in Cleveland, which is considered to be the biggest Slovenian city outside Slovenia. The Slovenians living in the USA were very honoured with her visit and expressed great satisfaction with the minsiter's visit. Minister Novak was satisfied to see how the Slovenians in the USA work hard to preserve the Slovenian language, culture and the Slovenian cuisine.

]]>Press Releasenews-2724Tue, 15 Jan 2013 14:23:00 +0100Boris Pahor made his first guest appearance in the Czech capital http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2724/
During their short two day stay in Prague, Boris Pahor visited the Faculty of Arts Charles...During their short two day stay in Prague, Boris Pahor visited the Faculty of Arts Charles University in Prague and met the students of the Slovenian language and the faculty members at the Department of South Slavonic and Balkan Studies. He also met the students who are studying the Slovenian language at the Brno University of Technology, which is one of the Czech Republic’s leading research and teaching institutions and with the students of the University of Pardubice, which is located near Prague. This very active day finished in the Vaclav Havel Library - Knihovna Václava Havla with a speech by the minister Ljudmila Novak and the opening of the exhibition.

The minister for Slovenians Abroad, Ljudmila Novak will visit the Slovenian minority living in Hungary. She will be briefed on the current status of the Slovenian community there.

FRIDAY, 23 NOVEMBER 2012

The minister for Slovenians Abroad, Ljudmila Novak will on Friday, 23 November, start her eleven-day visit to the United States of America. She will meet Slovenians living in Cleveland, Chicago, New York and Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania, and will also visit Slovenians in Milwaukee and Minneapolis in Minnesota. The purpose of the visit is to inform the Slovenian government about the problems that the Slovenian community faces in the USA and to encourage the local institutions to connect and cooperate with the experts of Slovenian origin that are a part of the community.

During her visit the minister Novak will give special attention to the opening of the office PoliMaT Centre of Excellence in Akron in Ohio. This office is expected to become the newly established Slovenian-American business association centre.

]]>Calendar of eventsnews-2676Mon, 29 Oct 2012 13:34:00 +0100The minister Ljudmila Novak congratulated the Slovenian Gazelles 2012http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2676/
On 25 October 2012 the media house, the Dnevnik newspaper, concluded their half-year project...On 25 October 2012 the media house, the Dnevnik newspaper, concluded their half-year project Gazelles 2012. Out of the six finalists - regional gazelles - the Golden Gazelle was awarded to the Dewesoft company from Trbovlje, the second place was awarded to GMT d.o.o. from the Prekmurje region and the bronze Gazelle was awarded to Lotrič Metrology from the Gorenjska region. The other three finalists were Bia Separations d.o.o. from Vipava, the Evrosad Group from Krško and Nektar Natura d.o.o. from Kamnik.

The minister Ljudmila Novak congratulated all six finalists and wished them continued success in their great work. She supports the entrepreneurial initiatives in the field of innovation and the development of new technologies, as it recognizes that high-tech products and their penetration into foreign markets are also very important for the further development of Slovenia.

While at the event, the minister Novak said "The Office for Slovenians Abroad is well aware how important the integration of Slovenian entrepreneurs with businesses in neighbouring countries and around the world is. For this reason, we have in the past and we will also be organizing more business conferences in the future. The topic aims to integrate individual entrepreneurs in Slovenia and entrepreneurs abroad. Through such events we support and encourage more intensive cross-border cooperation."

17.00 The minister for Slovenians Abroad, Ljudmila Novak will on Friday, 12 October 2012 visit the Cultural Centre Lojze Bratuš in Gorizia, Italy where she will meet the representatives of the organizations that are active in this centre. At 20.30 the minister Ljudmila Novak will attend the premier of the operetta “Pomladanska parada”, which will be staged on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the centre.

(Location: Cultural Centre Lojze Bratuš, Gorizia, Italy)

Matjaž Longar, the State Secretary in the Government Office for Slovenians Abroad will on Friday, 12 October 2012 visit the Slovenian community in Istria in Croatia. In the town Umag, he will meet the representatives of the organization Ajda, in Poreč the representatives of Oljka and in Pula the representatives of society named Istra.

MONDAY, 15 OCTOBER 2012

9.00 The minister for Slovenians Abroad, Ljudmila Novak will on Monday, 15 October 2012 at Kompas Xnet d.o.oattend the workshop named Simbioz@, which will take place as a part of the volunteer project of intergenerational cooperation and solidarity. The project is organized by the Institute, Ypsilon.

(Location: Kompas Xnet d.o.o., Stegne 7, Ljubljana)

]]>Calendar of eventsnews-2651Tue, 09 Oct 2012 15:17:00 +0200A joint concert by two great Slovenian octets http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2651/
During their ten day stay in Slovenia, the Slovenian octet from Mendoza performed a couple of...During their ten day stay in Slovenia, the Slovenian octet from Mendoza performed a couple of concerts all over Slovenia - in Nova Gorica, in Črnomelj, in the Gallery of Contemporary Arts in Ptuj, in the Slovenian town of Gornja Vas in Austria and finally in Ljubljana, the Slovenian capital. This visit was a wish comes true for eight childhood friends from Mendoza, who are also very active in the Slovenian community in Argentina. They sing together since 1998 and have had many concerts in Argentina and also in USA.

At the concert in the National Gallery in Ljubljana, they sang some Slovenian songs and also some famous Argentinian songs. The highlight of the evening was a performance by the Slovenski oktet - the Slovenian mastersingers, who last year celebrated sixty years of their existence.

]]>Press Releasenews-2647Fri, 05 Oct 2012 14:23:00 +0200International integration of local entrepreneurship as a possible way out of the economic crisishttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2647/
In his speech he also stated that in the critical situation in which Slovenia found itself, we all...In his speech he also stated that in the critical situation in which Slovenia found itself, we all have to find different ways on how to climb out of the crisis. “We have discovered that there is a great deal of unused potential, not just in the neighbouring countries, but also among Slovenians from all over the world. Therefore in our Office we would like to work on this potential and therefore we are going to organize many such events as this one today. Such conferences are one way to build connections,” said Mr. Longar.

The welcome speech was given by Dr. Štefan Čelan, Mayor of the city of Ptuj and by Franc Pukšič, the President of the Commission for Relations with Slovenians Abroad which is active in the Slovenian Parliament.

The conference was organized by the Government Office for Slovenians abroad, the city of Ptuj, the Regional Chambers of Craft from Ptuj and Maribor and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Štajerska region. The two day event was hosted by the city of Ptuj.

]]>Press Releasenews-2643Wed, 03 Oct 2012 11:45:00 +0200First conference of Slovenian journalists from the world and Sloveniahttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2643/
The Slovenian World Congress (SSK) organized this year for the first time the 1st Conference of...The Slovenian World Congress (SSK) organized this year for the first time the 1st Conference of Slovenian journalists from the world and Slovenia. The conference took place in Ljubljana on 27 and 28 September 2012.

The President of The Slovenian World Congress, Dr. Boris Pleskovič said in his welcome speech that the main purpose of the conference was to connect journalists who had Slovenian origins from all over the world and to deepen their relations and at the same time give them the opportunity to meet and build connections that would be useful in their work and in everyday life. In addition the journalists like to exchange their experiences in journalism in different countries.

The journalists were also welcomed by Ljudmila Novak, the minister for Slovenians Abroad who congratulated the organizers of the conference for their work. In her speech she expressed that also as a minister for Slovenians abroad, all the time she sees how little she knows about the lives of Slovenians living abroad and about their work, nevertheless, for the past six months she has been intensively studying this field and she also knew something about it from before. She also said that again and again she is surprised how diverse and rich the life of these people was and focused on the important role the media has in describing the Slovenians who were separated from their home country by history. She also expressed that the journalists as the creators of the community in which they lived had a very important mission as a link with the homeland. She hopes that such conferences will help to ease the work of the journalists.

]]>Press Releasenews-2641Tue, 02 Oct 2012 09:36:00 +0200The minister Tanya Plibersek from Australia visits Slovenia.http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2641/
Tanya Plibersek is a long time member of the Australian House of Representatives representing the...Tanya Plibersek is a long time member of the Australian House of Representatives representing the seat of Sydney, New South Wales. She is also the minister for health and the first Slovene Australian to reach the position of a minister in the Australian government.

The ministers Novak and Plibersek talked about the great importance of maintaining the Slovenian culture in Australia and talked about the great drop in activities in Slovenian clubs and schools in Australia. The ministers talked in the Slovenian language, as the Australian minister is fluent in the language of her ancestors. The visit of the minister Tanya Plibersek is one in a series of events which are increasingly connecting the two countries, but the main goal of her visit as being the health minister was to implement the agreement on health care in both countries.

Minister Tanya Plibersek during her visit to Slovenia already held a visit with the Slovenian health minister Tomaž Gantar and the President of the Slovenian Government Janez Janša. In the upcoming days she will meet the President of Slovenia, Dr. Danilo Türk.

]]>Press Releasenews-2620Thu, 20 Sep 2012 10:55:00 +0200Minister Ljudmila Novak visited the region of Venetia in Italy http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2620/
During her two day visit to the Slovenians living in the Venetia region in Italy, minister Ljudmila...During her two day visit to the Slovenians living in the Venetia region in Italy, minister Ljudmila Novak acquainted herself with the life, history, culture, problems and many more things about the Slovenians who live in that northern part of Italy. The Slovenian minority also presented to her their expectations for the future.

The emphasis was on close cooperation with the local authorities and with the people from both sides of the border - Slovenians in Slovenia and in Italy. Minister Novak expressed satisfaction with the improved relations between the majority nation and the Slovenian national community, but at the same time she emphasised the negative examples, as the one going on in the Rezija region.

“This Venetian region is little known, but very attractive for visits by tourists and also for the Slovenians in Slovenia. We all know that this region is inhabited by a Slovenian national community, but more information about everything here is unfortunately lacking,” expressed Ljudmila Novak, the minister.

]]>Press Releasenews-2619Thu, 20 Sep 2012 10:50:00 +0200Mr. Bert Pribec was honoured with the Order of Merithttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2619/
On Monday, 10 September 2012 the President of the Republic of Slovenia Dr. Danilo Türk honoured Mr....On Monday, 10 September 2012 the President of the Republic of Slovenia Dr. Danilo Türk honoured Mr. Bert Pribec with the Order of Merit. Mr. Pribec was honoured for his contribution to the recognition of the Istrian culture and for the integration of the Slovenian politics. ]]>Press Releasenews-2618Thu, 20 Sep 2012 10:48:00 +0200Minister Ljudmila Novak congratulated Mr. Tony Petkovšek for the honour he receivedhttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2618/
Minister Ljudmila Novak congratulated Mr. Tony Petkovšek on the honour of the Order of Merit, which...Minister Ljudmila Novak congratulated Mr. Tony Petkovšek on the honour of the Order of Merit, which he received for his important contribution in maintaining the Slovenian national community in Cleveland in the USA and keeping it vital. Mr. Petkovšek is well known among all the Slovenians in Cleveland, as he headed the famous radio broadcast called Polka Radio which was on every day for 50 years.

Today, Mr. Petkovšek heads one broadcast every Saturday. He is one of the main initiators and main contractors of the annual Polka Festival and the museum of polka called the Cleveland Polka Hall of Fame. For many years he also worked at the tourist agency Kollander Travel that organized many trips to Slovenia for the Slovenian descendents from Cleveland.

9.00 On Friday, the minister for Slovenians Abroad, Ljudmila Novak will visit the town of Sele in Carinthia, Austria. During her visit she will become acquainted with the work of the local and municipal authorities and with the work of the Slovenian societies in the area.

18.00 Matjaž Longar the State Secretary in the Government Office for Slovenians Abroad will attend the round table entitled “Who cares about how Slovenians live outside our borders?” The round table will be organized by radio Ognjišče from Slovenia.

SATURDAY, 15 SEPTEMBER 2012

Matjaž Longar, the State Secretary will attend the great annual meeting of Slovenians living in Hungary. The event will take place in Števanovci in Prekmurje, Slovenia.

SUNDAY, 16 SEPTEMBER 2012

18.00 The minister Ljudmila Novak will hold the speech at the ceremony of the municipal holiday of the Municipality of Logatec and their 30 years’ celebration of twinning with the Municipality of Repentabor from Italy.

(Location: Sports gym, Logatec)

MONDAY and TUESDAY, 17-18 SEPTEMBER 2012

The minister Ljudmila Novak will visit the Slovenians in Veneto in Italy. During her visit she will meet the representatives of Slovenian organizations, talk to the cultural workers and also to the local representatives.

WEDNESDAY, 19 SEPTEMBER 2012

During the Minister’s visit to the Koroška region, the minister Ljudmila Novak will attend a working visit with the representatives of the Slovenian organizations from the neighbouring country of Austria. The theme of the event will be the cross-border cooperation with the minority organizations. She will also visit the Koroška gallery, the Koroška regional museum and the Wolfova house.

(Location: Glavni trg 40, Slovenj Gradec)

THURSDAY, 20 SEPTEMBER 2012

20.00 The minister Ljudmila Novak will attend the celebration named “Prišel je pevec slovenske dežele…” (“The singer from Slovenia is here…”). The event which is organized as a part of the Social Week 2012 named “Who gives, who takes?” will take place in Trieste, Italy. The event is organized by the Social academy and the Municipality of Sveti Križ, Trieste, Italy.

(Location: Slomškov dom, Sveti križ, Trieste, IT)

FRIDAY, 21 SEPTEMBER 2012

17.00 Ljudmila Novak, the minister for Slovenians abroad will attend the round table on radio Ognjišče on the theme “Is the homeland a true stepmother to the Slovenians living in the neighbouring countries and abroad?”

(Location: Štula ulica 23, Ljubljana)

SUNDAY, 23 SEPTEMBER 2012

Minister Ljudmila Novak will visit Slovenian compatriots who will gather on the annual pilgrimage in Einsiedeln in Germany.

9.00 On Friday, theminister for Slovenians Abroad, Ljudmila Novak will attend the symposium titled “Slovenians abroad”, which is organized in Ljutomer as a part of a project called ‘From the Raba region to the region of the South Tyrol’ (Od Porabja do Južne Tirolske.)

(Location: Golarjeva hiša, Ljutomer)

In Murska Sobota the summer seminar for the educators, teachers and professors of the Slovenian language in Italy is also ending this Friday. At 12.30, the minister Ljudmila Novak will greet the attendees.

(Location: Hotel Diana, Slovenska ulica 52, Murska Sobota)

SATURDAY, 1 SEPTEMBER 2012

17.00The minister Ljudmila Novak will open the new holistic personal efficacy development centre Karnion.

(Location: Verje 13a, Medvode)

SUNDAY and MONDAY, 2–3 SEPTEMBER 2012

Matjaž Longar the State Secretary in the Government Office for Slovenians Abroad will attend the two day event ‘The Bled Strategic Forum’. More about the event: www.bledstrategicforum.org

(Location: Golf Hotel Bled, Bled)

TUESDAY, 4 SEPTEMBER 2012

19.00 The minister Ljudmila Novak will visit the headquarters of the Municipality Repentabor in Italy and meet the mayor Mark Pizanijem and the municipal committees, who will introduce to the minister Novak their work and upcoming projects.

(Location: Monrupino, 34016 TS, Italia)

At 20.00 the same day, the minister Ljudmila Novak will attend the pre-opening night of the 27th International literary festival Vilenica (27. Mednarodni literarni festival Vilenica) at the place named Kraška hiša in Repentabor. The event will host two Slovenian authors living in the neighbouring countries. The minister Novak will give the opening speech at the occasion.

(Location: Muzejska Kraška hiša, Repentabor 31, Trst)

WEDNESDAY, 5 SEPTEMBER 2012

15.00 At the church of St. Jakob in Ribno Bled, the minister Ljudmila Novak will address and bless the opening of the international way named St. Jakob. The way will connect Ljubljana and Monte Santo di Lussari in Italy. The ceremony will begin with the holy Mass, which will be given by Archbishop Msgr. Dr. Anton Stres.

(Location: Church of St. Jakoba, Ribno, Bled)

SUNDAY, 9 SEPTEMBER 2012

15.00 The minister Ljudmila Novak will make the welcome speech in memory of the Bazovica heroes, who were victims of WW II.

12.00 The minister for Slovenians Abroad, Ljudmila Novak will meet Žiga Turk, the minister at the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sport. At the meeting there will also be present Dr. Marko Snoj, the head of the Institute of Slovenian Language, Fran Ramovš and his colleague at the Institute, Marjeta Humar. They will talk about the threats to the Slovenian language and about the Institute for Slovenian language Fran Ramovš.

11.00 The minister Ljudmila Novak, will visit the Youth Health and Vacation Red Cross Camp Debeli rtič (Mladinsko zdravilišče in letovišče RKS Debeli rtič). She will acquaint herself with their work and future projects that include the greater involvement of Slovenian children and youth and also from those living abroad.

12.00 The minister for Slovenians Abroad, Ljudmila Novak will receive a courtesy visit by the Ambassador of France in the Republic of Slovenia, His Excellency Pierre-François Mouriera.

(Location: USZS, Komenskega ulica 11, Ljubljana)

]]>Calendar of eventsnews-2571Wed, 08 Aug 2012 14:15:00 +0200Minister Ljudmila Novak attends the reunion of people living abroad from the Apače valleyhttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2571/
This social event, held by compatriots who once lived and worked abroad, particularly in Germany and...This social event, held by compatriots who once lived and worked abroad, particularly in Germany and Austria, has grown from a small fish barbecue into a large annual reunion for families living abroad. The main purpose of this event, which takes place every first Saturday in August in Zgornje Konjišče, a settlement in north-eastern Slovenia in the Municipality of Apače, is to reunite families who used to spend a lot of time together while living abroad, but then lost touch when they moved back to their homeland. The reunion is held at a fishing cottage named Ribiški dom in Zgornje Konjišče.

In her speech, Mrs Novak pointed out that, as a Member of the European Parliament (MEP), she also experienced living abroad for a period of five years; so she knows what it feels like to come back home. At that time, she compared Slovenia with other countries and their culture, traditions and cuisine - and she was always happy to find that the quality of life in our country is very high.

She said: “Most of the compatriots that are now returning to Slovenia previously left the country because they were unable to find work, others left for political reasons and a number of young people are still going abroad to gain new knowledge and look for new job opportunities. Whenever I meet Slovenians at gatherings around the world, I notice a great deal of homesickness, patriotism and nostalgia for their home country; for this reason, most of them come home to spend their vacation here”; and she says that she is always very glad to meet with them.

]]>Press Releasenews-2570Wed, 08 Aug 2012 14:10:00 +0200State secretary Mr Matjaž Longar attends the “Reunion of Three Slovenias” on Mt. Lussarihttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2570/
The event was organized by Rafaelova družba (the Rafael Society), a non-governmental organization...The event was organized by Rafaelova družba (the Rafael Society), a non-governmental organization that works with Slovenian communities’ abroad and the European Association of Catholic Overseas Priests. The opening speech was made by the State Secretary Longar In his speech, he stressed the importance of such gatherings that connect Slovenians living abroad and those living in Slovenia as they reinforce national consciousness and strengthen Slovenian national identity.

The event started off with a lecture by Dr. Jože Trontelj, the President of SASA (Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts), entitled “Ethnic Values, Hope for the Future”. He spoke about the global crisis and how people are responding to the consequences. Later on, Bishop Metod Pirih offered Holy Mass at the Pilgrimage Church of the Virgin Mary. In his sermon, he stressed that the purpose of the “Reunion of Three Slovenias” on Mt. Lussari is to deepen people's faith and strengthen national consciousness - and also to unite Slovenians all around the world - at home and abroad. The event ended with a special cultural program by the Podbrežje church choir.

13.00 Ljudmila Novak, the minister for Slovenians Abroadwill attend the reunion of people living abroad from the Apače region and its surroundings in Zgornje Konjišče in the Styria region. Zgornje Konjišče is a settlement in northeastern Slovenia on the right bank of the River Mura in the municipality of Apače.

(Location: Ribiški dom in Zgornje Konjišče, Apače)

SUNDAY, 5. AUGUST 2012

10.30 Matjaž Longar the State Secretary in the Government Office for Slovenians Abroad will attend the 24th reunion of “The Slovenians from the world” at Mt. Lussari in Italy. The event is organized by the Rafaelova družba, which is one of the non-governmental organizations that work with Slovenian communities’ abroad. The event will start of with a lecture by Acad. Jože Trontelj, the President of SASA, Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts.

(Location: Mt. Lussari, Italy)

,

]]>Calendar of eventsnews-2562Tue, 31 Jul 2012 10:30:00 +0200Report on the use of received funds for area A and area Bhttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2562/
Form for the report on the use of received funds for area A (Slovenians in the neighbouring...Form for the report on the use of received funds for area A (Slovenians in the neighbouring countries) and for area B (Slovenians abroad) for the year 2012.

Before completing this Form, please read the detailed instructions. Besides the signed and stamped Form you MUST also attach copies of documents that show the appropriate usage of allocated funds. Without such the documents will be considered inadequate.

Form 2012 – the area A, Slovenians in the neighbouring countries

Form 2012 – the area B, Slovenians abroad

The deadline to send/for submission of the reports is 31 January 2013. For any further information please call us on our number +386 (0)1 230 80 00, or send us an e-mail to urad.slovenci(at)gov.si

]]>Press Releasenews-2560Fri, 27 Jul 2012 13:55:00 +0200Seminar for teachers of the Slovenian language from Argentina and Australiahttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2560/
The Government Office for Slovenians Abroad and the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and...The Government Office for Slovenians Abroad and the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sport will in cooperation with the National Education Institute of the Republic of Slovenia in 2013 also organize and finance a seminar for teachers of the Slovenian language and other subjects in the Slovenian language in Saturday schools in Argentina and Australia. The seminar will take place from 23 January to 01 February 2013. The estimated number of participants is 15 to 20 people.

We would like to inform all Slovenian schools or institutions involved in teaching the Slovenian language and culture as well as the Slovenian immigrant press in South America and Australia about the given possibilities to come and improve their knowledge.

The registration form is available on the website of the Government Office for Slovenians Abroad http://www.uszs.gov.si/, the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in Brasilia, Brazil and the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in Canberra, Australia.

The candidates must send the completed application form to the Government Office for Slovenians Abroad, Komenskega 11, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia, or in a scanned electronic version (via e-mail) to urad.slovenci(at)gov.sior suzana.martinez(at)gov.si.The information provided in the application must be accurate and complete.

The deadline for applying is 10 September 2012. Preference will be given to those candidates who are applying for the first time and intend to continue teaching. It is expected that after completing the seminar they will be involved and active in teaching the Slovenian language for at least two years after returning home. Furthermore, their active participation in the Slovenian associations is also expected.

20.00 The minister for Slovenians Abroad, Ljudmila Novak will attend the Etno night at the 42nd International Folklore Festival Beltinci which is organized by the Cultural Art Society Beltinci, KUD Bletinci. Besides the singing group Katice and the local tamburitza music group “KUD Beltinci”, the tamburitza group “Tamika” from Železna kapla, in Carinthia in Austria and the tamburitza group “Biser Medžimurja” KUD Žiškovec from Žiškovica in Croatia will also perform.

(Location: Beltinci, Slovenia)

SATURDAY, 4. AUGUST 2012

13.00 Ljudmila Novak, the minister will attend the reunion of people living abroad from the Apače region and its surroundings in Zgornje Konjišče in the Styria region. Zgornje Konjišče is a settlement in northeastern Slovenia on the right bank of the River Mura in the municipality of Apače.

(Location: Ribiški dom in Zgornje Konjišče, Apače)

SUNDAY, 5. AUGUST 2012

10.30Matjaž Longar the State Secretary in the Government Office for Slovenians Abroad will attend the 24th reunion of “The Slovenians from the world” at Mt. Lussari in Italy. The event is organized by the Rafaelova družba, which is one of the non-governmental organizations that work with Slovenian communities’ abroad. The event will start of with a lecture by Acad. Jože Trontelj, the President of SASA, Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts.

(Location: Mt. Lussari, Italy)

]]>Calendar of eventsnews-2552Mon, 23 Jul 2012 15:06:00 +0200President of the Republic of Slovenia Dr Türk honours Fr. Ciril A. Božič OFM, AOM http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2552/
On Thursday, July 12, 2012, a special ceremony was held where the President of the Republic of...On Thursday, July 12, 2012, a special ceremony was held where the President of the Republic of Slovenia Dr. Danilo Türk honoured Fr. Ciril A. Božič OFM, AOM with the Order of Merit. The ceremony took place in the Presidential Palace in Ljubljana. The minister for Slovenians Abroad, Mrs. Ljudmila Novak was also present at the ceremony and congratulated Father Ciril. In the name the Government Office for Slovenians Abroad she thanked him for his work and for keeping the Slovenian spirit alive among the Slovenians in Australia.

Father Ciril thanked the President Dr. Türk for the received honour, which in his words meant the recognition of all the Slovenians living in Australia. He said that they all cared for and preserved the Slovenian national identity and cultural heritage which they brought with them from their homeland. He also thanked Ljudmila Novak and the Office for Slovenians Abroad and all those involved in keeping the connections with the Slovenians scattered all over the world. At this point he also expressed his wish that the Slovenians abroad would have a representative in the Slovenian parliament one day.

11.00 The minister for Slovenians Abroad, Ljudmila Novak will visit the tourist farm Zidarich in Prepotto in Italy. At 11am the minister Novak will meet Mr. Giovanni Pier Sanno, the Director General at the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Environment of the Republic of Italy, Mr. Luca Lauro, who is responsible for the field of wine culture and Senator Tamara Blažina. The focus of the meeting will be to improve the cross- border cooperation in the Karst region in the field of agriculture.

(Location: Prepotto 23, Duino Aurisina, Trieste, Italy)

14.30 The children who attend the Saturday classes of Slovenian language at the Slovenian school of St. Mary in Cleveland, USA, will visit the Office of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad.

(Location: USZS, Komenskega 11, Ljubljana)

The non-governmental organization called ‘Izseljensko društvo Slovenija v svetu’ organizes the 2nd Championship in volleyball for Slovenians living abroad. The event will be held in Ljubljana in remembrance of 20 years of the National Volleyball Federation. The minister Ljudmila Novak will welcome the guests on the opening evening one day before.

(Location: Dijaški dom Poljane, Potočnikova 3, Ljubljana)

WEDNESDAY, 25 JULY 2012

12.00 The minister for Slovenians Abroad Ljudmila Novak will host HE Mimoza Ahmetaj,

The Ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo in Ljubljana.

(Location: USZS, Komenskega 11, Ljubljana)

THURSDAY, 26 JULY 2012

20.30 The minister for Slovenians Abroad Ljudmila Novak will attend the meeting of the families from Austria, Hungary, the Netherlands and Slovenia. The meeting will take place in the Spiritiual retreat home (Dom duhovnosti) in Benedict in Prekmurje.

(Location: Kančevci 38, Križevci v Prekmurju)

]]>Calendar of eventsnews-2544Thu, 05 Jul 2012 12:13:00 +0200"Dobrodošli doma 2012": Ljubljana revived the spirit of integration among the Slovenes around the worldhttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2544/
On Wednesday, 4th July 2012, the city centre of Ljubljana came to life in the spirit of integration...On Wednesday, 4th July 2012, the city centre of Ljubljana came to life in the spirit of integration among the Slovenes in the homeland and those who came from abroad to meet and connect with their compatriots from all over the world. The welcome speech to the attendants was given by Ljudmila Novak, Minister for Slovenians Abroad and Zoran Janković, Mayor of Ljubljana.

Along the Ljubljanicaa riverbank - Breg, Slovenians from all over the world gathered for the event “Dobrodošli doma 2012". The event this year has for the second time been organized jointly by our Office of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad, the four non-governmental organizations that work with Slovenian communities abroad (Izseljensko društvo Slovenija v svetu, Svetovni slovenski kongres, Rafaelova družba in Združenje Slovenska izseljenska matica), the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts and the National and University Library.

The whole day event started in the morning in the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts with a scientific conference about ethnical economy and the Slovenians outside the country of Slovenia. The celebration was enriched by the stage performers of Slovenian music, dance and theatrical shows, and exhibition stands with typical Slovenian products and presentations of Slovenian culture that is still alive outside the Slovenian borders. Besides the BK evolution music group from Italy, the MePZ Danica choir from Austria, the St. Jernej singers from Italy, high school students with Slovenian origins from Argentina and Canada and other music groups from abroad, there were also some performers from Slovenia, such us the Orlek group.

In her welcome speech the minister Ljudmila Novak warmly addressed the gathering and wished them all that they have a great time in Slovenia and to take home the best memories of our country and about the great time they spent here. She expressed the wish that they keep returning to Slovenia again and again and also thanked all the performers that showed how the knowledge and love for the Slovenian language is passed on to the young generations. She gave special attention to the fact that the event “Dobrodošli doma 2012” was organized by all those who in any small way support the Slovenian communities abroad. Her speech ended with the words “Slovenia is going to always be nice to you and you are always warmly welcome here.”

The highlight of the day was the evening reception at the National and University Library held by Ljudmila Novak, the minister for Slovenians abroad. At the official reception she gave recognition to a Slovenian from Canada, Mr. Ted Kremolc for his 90th anniversary and at the same time opened his exhibition named “S peresom in čopičem: Ted Kramolc, 90 let – With pen and brush: Ted Kremolc, 90 years.” In addition to this exhibition there was also the opening of the exhibition “Med Slovenci v Kanadi – Among the Slovenians in Canada” and a photographic exhibition “Realnost naših objektivov – The reality of our lens”, which was organized by the Slovenian society Bazovica from the city Reka in Croatia. All three exhibitions are on display at the National and University Library until the end of this summer. The music treat of the evening was provided by the Slovenski oktet - Slovenian mastersingers.

History has scattered Slovenians all over the world, but even so we have been able to navigate through the turbulent waves and cliffs of our national history with a strong will and great love for the motherland. We have managed to maintain and strengthen the Slovenian national consciousness, identity, language, rich culture and heritage both at home and also abroad. Despite the different environments in which we live, in our souls we have managed to keep the awareness of our Slovenian homeland and that we are members of the same nation. With this flame in our hearts and the burning desire for reunion we will meet again in early July in our beautiful capital city of Ljubljana.

Dear compatriots, I am pleased to welcome you to join us at the event "Dobrodošli doma 2012", which will be organized on 4th July together with Slovenians from around the world. On this occasion I would also like to warmly thank all the performers and other co-organizers who helped to make this a beautiful event.

Looking forward to seeing you in the heart of Ljubljana!

Ljudmila Novak,

Minister for Slovenians Abroad

]]>Press Releasenews-2505Thu, 14 Jun 2012 14:34:00 +0200In Grosuplje a conference focused on cross-border cooperation and the integration of Slovenian organizations in neighboring countrieshttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2505/
The Government Office for Slovenians Abroad in cooperation with the Regional Chamber of Craft and...

The Government Office for Slovenians Abroad in cooperation with the Regional Chamber of Craft and Small Business, Grosuplje and the Grosuplje municipality on Wednesday, 13th June 2012 organized a conference entitled “International cooperation of local entrepreneurship”. The minister for Slovenians abroad Ljudmila Novak opened the conference and addressed the guests.

In her speech she expressed that the economic strategy is based on the strategy that the Government office built through the International cooperation of the Slovenian national minorities in neighbouring countries and the local entrepreneurship. She sees that there are still many open possibilities of working together in developing strong ties by organizing such events as this one. She also pointed out that the Government office for Slovenians abroad will further support the bridge between Slovenian entrepreneurs and the Slovenian minority organizations if the will shall be expressed.

The topic of the conference was focused on the cross-border cooperation and integration of Slovenian organizations in neighboring countries with similar organizations in the Republic of Slovenia. Slovenians on both sides of the border have great potential in knowledge and personal entrepreneurial skills that can only be improved by working together. In the field of entrepreneurship there are many opportunities that could be used to strengthen the economic cooperation in terms of investing in the Republic of Slovenia and employment opportunities, as well as in terms of promotion of the Slovenian economy.

15:00 The minister for Slovenians Abroad, Ljudmila Novak will attend the summer event “When I grow up / I will be…” which is organized by Mladinski dom – Jugendheim, Varstvo – Hort ABCČ and the nursery school called “Sonce” in Klagenfurt, Austria. At the event the minister Novak will open the ABCČ Slovenian pavilion.

(Location: Mikschallee / Mikšev drevored 4, Klagenfurt)

21:00 The minister Novak will see the outdoor play titled "Back to the past". The play will be preformed on the occasion of the 100-year anniversary of the Slovenian educational association Bilka Bilčovs by all the generations of the Bilka society.

(Location: Bilčovs, Austria)

17:00 Matjaž Longar the State Secretary in the Government Office for Slovenians Abroad will attend the opening of the exhibition "From the erasure of identity to its reconstruction – Slovenians in BiH 1530-2012". The exhibition will be held in the Primary school Mirna, Slovenia until 30 June 2012. At the event two Slovenian choirs from Sarajevo and from Banja Luka will perform.

(Location: Mirna, Slovenia)

SATURDAY, 16 JUNE 2012

This Saturday and Sunday in Šentvid pri Stični there will be the traditional 43rd “Tabor of Slovenian choirs”. On Saturday ten Slovenian choirs from the neighbouring countries will sing Slovenian songs starting at 20.00hrs. The event will be opened by the minister for Slovenians abroad Ljudmila Novak.

(Location: Primary school Freda Vesela, Šentvid pri Stični)

TUESDAY, 19 JUNE 2012

19.00 The minister Ljudmila Novak will attend the opening ceremony of the 20th “Cultural week of Carinthian Slovenes”, which will take place in Velden am Wörther See. At the anniversary event the visitors will be addressed by the mayor of the city Ferdinand Vouk, the minister for Slovenians abroad Ljudmila Novak and the Governor of Carinthia Gerhard Dörfler.

Later the minister Novak and the Governer Dörfler will also talk about the Slovenian national minority in Carinthia and its problems.

(Location: Velden am Wörther See, Austria)

WEDNESDAY, 20 JUNE 2012

18:00 The minister Ljudmila Novak will open the exhibition named “Podobe kanadskih Slovencev – The images of Canadian Slovenians” at the Slovenian Migration Institute (SMI) at the Research Centre of the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts (ZRC SAZU).

State Secretary Matjaž Longar will visit the Slovenian Regional Economic Association (SDGZ) in Trieste, Italy. He will also visit Zadružna kraška banka (ZKB) - Banca di Credito Cooperativo del Carso aggiorna and the industrial zone where he will also talk to the entrepreneurs.

21:00 The minister for Slovenians Abroad, Ljudmila Novak, will see the opera The Elixir of Love (L'elisir d'amore) on Saturday, 9 June 2012. The opera which is preformed by the Opera academy from Križ near Trieste (IT) will be presented in the open space theatre in Studenec near Domžale.

The Minister will address the guests.

(Location: Studenec near Domžale).

SATURDAY, 9 JUNE 2012

The Association of Slovenian Societies in Bosnia and Herzegovina "Evropa zdaj - Europe Now" is organizing the 13th traditional meeting of Slovenian language supplementary schools in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The event will host more than 100 children from six different Slovenian associations. Matjaž Longar the State Secretary in the Government Office for Slovenians Abroad will also attend the event.

During his visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina the State Secretary will also visit the Slovenian association in Banja Luka and Prijedor.

MONDAY – WEDNESDAY, 11 – 13 JUNE 2012

The State Secretary Matjaž Longar will attend the three-day international conference "Global Village 2012” held in Jerusalem. The main topic of the conference will be to show the cooperation between diaspora and the country of origin.

The State Secretary, Matjaž Longar will attend the conference on behalf of the minister Ljudmila Novak in order to gain experience on how other countries maintain the relations between diaspora and the country of origin. He will also visit the Slovenian community living in Israel.

TUESDAY, 12 JUNE 2012

16.00 The minister for Slovenians Abroad, Ljudmila Novak will receive the Ambassador of Australia, His Excellency John Potts.

(Location: Komenska str. 11, Lubljana)

WEDNESDAY, 13 JUNE 2012

11.00 The Government Office for Slovenians Abroad in cooperation with the Regional Chamber of Craft and Small Business, Grosuplje and the Grosuplje municipality will on Wednesday organize a conference entitled "International cooperation of local entrepreneurship”.

(Location: Tabor str.1, Grosuplje).

The topic of the conference will be focused on cross-border cooperation and integration of Slovenian organizations in neighboring countries with similar organizations in the Republic of Slovenia. Slovenians on both sides of the border have great potential in knowledge and personal entrepreneurial skills that can only be improved by working together. In the field of entrepreneurship there are many opportunities that could be used to strengthen the economic cooperation in terms of investing in the Republic of Slovenia and employment opportunities, as well as in terms of promotion of the Slovenian economy.

]]>Calendar of eventsnews-2472Fri, 25 May 2012 11:35:00 +0200UPCOMING EVENTS: 25 – 31 MAY 2012http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2472/
Minister for Slovenians Abroad Ljudmila Novak will visit Sweden from 25 – 28 May, 2012 on the...Minister for Slovenians Abroad Ljudmila Novak will visit Sweden from 25 – 28 May, 2012 on the occasion of the golden jubilee celebration of the Slovenian Catholic Mission in Sweden. During her visit the Minister will meet also with Slovenians living in other Swedish cities Gothenburg, Stockholm and Vadstena.

FRIDAY, 25 MAY 2012

The first day of her visit in Sweden minister Ljudmila Novak will visit the Slovenian community in Gothenburg.

SATURDAY, 26 MAY 2012

On Saturday minister Ljudmila Novak will travel to city Vadstena where the golden jubilee celebration of the Slovenian Catholic Mission in Sweden will take place. The celebration will first start with the Holy mass and will be followed by the procession to the linden tree (Slovenian symbol). After that the delegation will visit the ancient Gothic church Klosterkyrka, where the relics of St. Brigita of Sweden are kept. Solemn celebration will end in the evening with a cultural program.

SUNDAY, 27 MAY 2012

On Sunday minister Novak will visit Swedish capital of Stockholm, where she will meet with the staff of the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia Stockholm and also meet with the Slovenians who live in the Swedish capital and its surroundings.

OTHER EVENTS

FRIDAY, 25 MAY 2012

11.25 The State Secretary Matjaž Longar will attend the meeting with the President of the European Council, Herman Van Rompuy, who will address the National Assembly, ministers, the Ambassadors of EU Member States and the members of the Economic and Social Council.

(Location: Great Hall at the National Assembly, Šubičeva str.4, Ljubljana)

MONDAY, 28 MAY 2012

14.30The State Secretary Matjaž Longar will attend the ceremony on the occasion of 110 years of Catholic educational society »Planina« in Zell in Austria.

(Location: Parish Church home 11, Borovlje, Zell, Austria)

TUESDAY, 29 MAY 2012

13:30 Minister Ljudmila Novak will attend the presentation of a new multimedia site MMC RTV on Radio-television Slovenia, Slovenian national TV and radio station. The new multimedia will be dedicated to Slovenians living abroad and Slovenian national minorities in Italy, Austria and Hungary.

Minister Ljudmila Novak will attend the whole day Official Government visit to Pomurje region in Slovenia.

THURSDAY, 31 MAY 2012

14.00Minister Ljudmila Novak will participate in the joint session of the Commissionfor Relationswith Slovenians Abroadand the Committee for Foreign Affairs. The committee members will review the current situation on Slovenian minority in Austria.

]]>Calendar of eventsnews-2469Tue, 22 May 2012 16:00:00 +0200Government Office for Slovenians Living Abroad gave out prizes for the best graduate, masters and doctoral theses on topics about “Slovenians living abroad” and “Slovenians living in exile”http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2469/
The Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts hosted today, 22 May 2012 the event on which the winners...The Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts hosted today, 22 May 2012 the event on which the winners of the “Tenth prize competition for graduate, masters and doctoraltheses on topics about “Slovenians living abroad” and “Slovenians living in exile” given out by Government Office for Slovenians Living Abroadwere announced. The awards were given to the winners by Ljudmila Novak, the minister for Slovenians abroad. The ceremony was also attended by the President of the National Assembly Commission for Relations with Slovenes Abroad Franc Pukšič and Dr. Sarah Žitnik, the Vice President of the Research Centre of the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts (ZRC SAZU).

Minister Ljudmila Novak congratulated the winners and addressed to them to continue in their academic life to build public awareness about the life of Slovenians living abroad. She also stressed that such work is very important in keeping ties between the Slovenians all over the world and the country of Slovenia. The large number of tenders that came in for the competition are a clear sign that interest in such topic increased also among young people, which is great.

After the official introduction the awards ceremony followed. First prize in the category Slovenians living abroad was given to Devan Jagodic for his doctoral thesis entitled "Cross-border residential mobility in the context of the European Union: the case of the Slovenian-Italian border (Mobilitá residenziale Transfrontalier nel contesto dell` Unione Europea: il confine Caso of Italo-Inglese)". As for the second best in the same category Milan Obida was chosen for his work "Ethnizität Minderheitendiskurs am Beispiel und der österreichischen Solidaritätsbewegung mit den Kartner Slowenen den Jahren 1970er - Ethnicity and minority discourse in the case of a solidarity movement Austrian Carinthian Slovenes in the 70s last century” and third prize went to Nikoletti Vajda Nagy fot her thesis "Acceptance of the Slovenian minority in the Raba region". A special prize for doctoral dissertation was given to Barbara Riman for her work "Slovenians in Gorski Kotar, Istria and Dalmatia from 1919 until 1991", and recommendation for the publication was given to Mirjam Danilović for her thesis entitled "The Language College students' ability for economic professions in Carinthia".

First prize in the category Slovenians living in exile was not given out. The second prize was given to Miha Zobec for his thesis entitled "Being Argentine and live at home", the third prize was then given to Mateja Juričan for her work "Images of German concentration camps in selected parts of the Slovenian and world literature," and to Sanja Orlač for her work "U- foreigner topos of difference.”

10.30Ministerfor Slovenians AbroadLjudmila Novak will receive representatives of the Slovenian organizations operating within the Catholic Church in Carinthia, Austria. The purpose of the meeting is to present the organization which plays an important role in preserving the Slovenian identity in Carinthia.

(Location: Government Office for Slovenes Abroad, Komenskega st. 11, Ljubljana)

18.00Minister Ljudmila Novak will attend in Trieste, Italy the Congress of the Slovenian Cultural and Economic Union (SKGZ). Special recognition and prices will be given to the individuals and groups that played an important role in the development of SKGZ. The minister will address the guests on behalf of the Prime Minister

(Location: Narodni Dom, Filzi st. 14, Trieste, Italy)

TUESDAY, 22 MAY 2012

11.00The Government Office for Slovenians Abroad invites you to the proclamation of winners of the 9th prize competitionfor graduate, masters and doctoral theses on the topic "Slovenians Abroad" and "Slovenians in Exile." Minister Ljudmila Novak will have the speech and give out the prizes to the winners.

The competition aims to promote research activities of undergraduate and graduate students in the field of foreign and expatriate themes in order to enhance awareness of its importance for the preservation of Slovenian identity in the homeland and beyond.(Location: Research Centre of the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts, small hall, Novi trg st. 4, Ljubljana).

WEDNESDAY, 23 MAY 2012

14.00Matjaž Longar, State Secretary at the Government Office for Slovenians Abroad will attend the “First Small Business Summit” organized by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia (CCIS).

]]>Calendar of eventsnews-2459Wed, 16 May 2012 16:33:00 +0200Minister Ljudmila Novak met with the representatives of Commission for National Minorities Sport at Olympic Committee of Slovenia.http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2459/
Minister Novak met the representatives of Commission for National Minorities at Olympic Committee of...Minister Novak met the representatives of Commission for National Minorities at Olympic Committee of Slovenia today, 16 May 2012. Besides the president of the Commission Mrs. Sonja Poljšak, the meeting attended also Mr. Jože Hirnök (Association of Slovenians in Hungary), Mr. Ivan Lukan (Slovenian Sports Association from Carinthia), Mr. Jurij Kufersin (Association of Slovenian Sport clubs in Italy) and Mr. Ivan Peterlin.

The guests presented to the minister the work of the Commission and diverse Slovene sport Associations in each of the neighboring country. The purpose of the meeting was to illuminate the importance of sport itself as a form of informal gatherings to maintain and promote the use of the Slovenian language in neighboring countries also among young people.

Minister Novak was delighted by the work of the Commission and other sports associations and assured further support for their activities.

]]>Press Releasenews-2456Wed, 16 May 2012 13:54:00 +0200Minister Novak received Ambassador Doumahttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2456/
Minister Ljudmila Novak received the Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Ljubljana His...

Minister Ljudmila Novak received the Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Ljubljana His Excellency Jos Douma in her office today, 16 May 2012.

Minister Novak noted the Ambassador with her role as the Minister for Slovenians abroad and presented the work of the Government Office which she leads. They also talked about the political situation in Slovenia and about our Slovene minorities in our neighboring countries.

]]>Press Releasenews-2454Mon, 14 May 2012 13:06:00 +0200“Triglav”, the Slovenian Cultural Society from Split celebrating their 20 yearshttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2454/
Slovenian Cultural Society “Triglav” from Split organized a great celebration last Friday, 11 May in...Slovenian Cultural Society “Triglav” from Split organized a great celebration last Friday, 11 May in Split Puppet Theatre to mark their 20th anniversary. Mrs. Ljudmila Novak, the Minister for Slovenians Abroad also attended the event and held a speech of honor to the Slovenian community there.

Minister Novak highlighted that the current Slovenian government maintained the Government's Office for Slovenians Abroad even though there was a merging of some ministries and also some government offices. She ensured that the Office will keep on with moral and also financial support for Slovenians living abroad.

The event was attended also by Mrs. Uršula Potočnik from the Slovenian Embassy in Zagreb, Slovenian Honorary Consul in Split Branko Roglić, representatives of Split - Dalmatia County and representatives of some other Slovenian cultural organizations in Croatia.

“Triglav” was founded in Split on May 9 1992 and it has about 1200 members. In addition to a rich library they issue a newsletter named “Planika” (edelweiss) which is mainly for the Slovenian community in Dalmatia, Zadar, Sibenik and Dubrovnik.

]]>Press Releasenews-2452Thu, 10 May 2012 15:13:00 +0200Upcoming events: 11 May to 17 May 2012http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2452/
FRIDAY, 11 MAY 2012
The Minister of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad Ljudmila Novak...FRIDAY, 11 MAY 2012

The Minister of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad Ljudmila Novak will visit Slovenians in Split to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Slovenian Cultural Society Triglav Split. Minister Novak will welcome the guests in her speech at the ceremonial academy

WEDNESDAY, 16 MAY 2012

11.00 Minister Ljudmila Novak will receive the Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Ljubljana His Excellency Jos Douma.

(Location: The Government Office for Slovenians Abroad, Komenskega 11, Ljubljana)

]]>Calendar of eventsnews-2450Thu, 10 May 2012 10:22:00 +0200Minister Ljudmila Novak in Milan attended the round table »Slovenia: the publishing door of Mitteleuropa«http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2450/
Minister Ljudmila Novak participated at the round table on Wednesday 9th May 2012 at the Biblioteca...Minister Ljudmila Novak participated at the round table on Wednesday 9th May 2012 at the Biblioteca Ambrosiana historic library in Milan. The event »Slovenia: the publishing door of Mitteleuropa« was organized to promote the project »Maribor - European Capital of Culture 2012«.

Minister Novak welcomed the participants and invited them to visit Maribor which is this year the European Capital of Culture. In her speech she stressed how important the culture is for the existence of our nation and exposed the greatness of Slovenian literature. She also reminded about the great role our culture had at the time Slovenian state was creating.

At the round table participated also Mr. Rudi Merljak from the Government's Office for Slovenians Abroad, Mr. Slavko Pregl writer and director of the Slovenian Book Agency and Mr. Zdravko Duša expert program advisor for the project »Maribor - European Capital of Culture 2012«.

Following the official program Minister Novak visited the premises of the great historic library Biblioteca Ambrosiana.

]]>Press Releasenews-2446Wed, 09 May 2012 10:47:00 +0200Dobrodošli doma – Welcome home 2012http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2446/
Dear Slovenians, dear friends of Slovenia!
You are warmly welcome to join us once again for the...Dear Slovenians, dear friends of Slovenia!

You are warmly welcome to join us once again for the event “Dobrodošli doma – Welcome home” which will take place in Ljubljana this year on 4th of July.

The Slovenians living in Slovenia and also those who live all over the world will this year meet again in our capital city, Ljubljana. The program will take place on several locations in the city center.

In the morning we will start at the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts with the scientific conference about ethnical economy and the Slovenians outside the country of Slovenia. Throughout the day the event will be enriched by Slovenian music, dance and theater performances on stage in the city center and exhibition stands with typical Slovenian products and presentations of Slovenian culture that is alive outside Slovenian borders. The highlight of the day will be the evening reception at the National and University Library held by Mrs. Ljudmila Novak, our Minister for Slovenians abroad and the informative tour of exhibition about Slovenians living and working in Canada.

Dear compatriots, welcome home!

The event “Dobrodošli doma – Welcome home” is organized together by our Office of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad, the four non-governmental organizations that work with Slovenian communities abroad (Izseljensko društvo Slovenija v svetu, Svetovni slovenski kongres, Rafaelova družba in Združenje Slovenska izseljenska matica), the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts and the National and University Library.

]]>Press Releasenews-2447Wed, 09 May 2012 09:14:00 +0200Pahor's "Il figlio di Nessuno – Nobody’s child” also in Milan http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2447/
Slovenian writer Boris Pahor presented his last book &quot;Il figlio di Nessuno – Nobody’s child” in...Slovenian writer Boris Pahor presented his last book "Il figlio di Nessuno – Nobody’s child” in Milan, Italy on Tuesday, 8th of May 2012. The event was organized by the Association of Slovenians in Milan and the Honorary Consul General Mr. Gianvico Camisasca. Mrs. Ljudmila Novak, the Minister for Slovenians Abroad also attended the event and warmly welcomed the guests.

"Il figlio di Nessuno – Nobody’s child” is autobiographical work written by Boris Pahor and his co writer Cristina Battoceletti, the journalist at the newspaper Il Sole 24 Ore. In the book the author talks about themes for which he considers that the new generations should not forget, but should learn from. Pahor describes his memories of the concentration camps, fascism and the killing in fojbe, while he focuses also on his private life and love.

In the spirit of celebrating the 20th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Republic of Italy and the Republic of Slovenia and the fact that Slovenia is hosting the great cultural event "Maribor - European Capital of Culture 2012", on this occasion the Ambassador of the Republic of Slovenia in Italy Iztok Mirošič handed the writer Boris Pahor recognition of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Following the event, minister Novak met and talked with representatives of the Association of Slovenians in Milan, Italy.

10.00The Minister of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad Ljudmila Novak will receive Her Britannic Majesty's Ambassador to the Republic of Slovenia Andrew Page.

(Location: The Government Office for Slovenes Abroad, Komenskega 11, Ljubljana)

12.30The Minister Ljudmila Novak will meet Jože Dežman, acting manager of the Archives of the Republic of Slovenia.

(Location: The Government Office for Slovenes Abroad, Komenskega 11, Ljubljana)

14.00In the afternoon minister Ljudmila Novak will visit the leader of the Serb Orthodox Church, bishop Peran Bošković at the Serbian Orthodox Church of SS. Cyril and Methodius in Ljubljana.

(Location: Serbian Orthodox Church in Ljubljana)

SATURDAY, 21 APRIL 2012

19.00The Minister of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad Ljudmila Novak will see the show Dohodnina, which is directed by mr. Franci Končan. The show is preformed by a group named Odrasla igralska skupina Katoliškega prosvetnega društva Planine-Sele from Austrian Carinthia.

(Location: Kulturni dom Vir in Domžale)

The State Secretary at the Office of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad Matjaž Longar will attend the 15th meeting of Slovenian choirs of Western Europe. The great cultural event, which is this year organized by Slovenian miners association, will take place in France in the city Freyming-Merlebach.

TUESDAY, 24 APRIL 2012

18.00The State Secretary Matjaž Longar will attend the reception at the Embassy of Austria in Slovenia.

(location: Embassy of Austria in Ljubljana)

THURSDAY, 26 APRIL 2012

16.00The State Secretary Matjaž Longar will receive H.E. Mr Doku G. Zavgaev Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to the Republic of Slovenia and the delegation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.

(Location: The Government Office for Slovenes Abroad, Komenskega 11, Ljubljana)

]]>Calendar of eventsnews-2118Mon, 20 Jun 2011 14:30:00 +0200Welcome home on 1st July in Ljubljana!http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2118/
Dear Slovenes around the world, dear friends,
&nbsp;
it has been twenty years since the home of the...Dear Slovenes around the world, dear friends,

it has been twenty years since the home of the Slovenes became an independent and internationally recognised country. One of the many events celebrating the anniversary year will be dedicated to meeting Slovenes living around the world. We will meet fellow Slovenes who are many kilometres, countries or even continents away from Slovenia.

We will celebrate our country’s birthday where our heart is – among our own people. They will come from far in order to be and become close.

The home of everything of which Slovenes living at home and abroad are proud. The old town will come to life with stalls of various organisations and societies, a range of culinary delights, and performances of music, folklore and theatre groups maintaining and developing Slovenian culture far from the borders of the homeland. The exchange of experience between people living in different countries will doubtlessly be an exceptional occasion, imbued with the spirit of environments where we grew up, the customs we have come to call our own and, above all, the invisible but strong ties which have connected us to Slovenia for years and decades.

Between 15.00 and 20.00 on Pogačarjev Square, in front of the Town Hall, Trubarjev antikvariat (second-hand bookshop) and different street corners in the old town, there will be performances by the Carinthian rock groupBališ and BK evolution from Venetian Slovenia, by an orchestra, choirs, dance and theatre group from Belgium, Croatia, France, Serbia, the USA, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Germany, Italy, Hungary, Croatia, Austria and Argentina – from practically everywhere, as it were.

The events culminate at 20.30 on Prešeren Square, where welcome addresses will be followed by a multimedia performance by Sounds of Slovenia/Sozvočja Slovenije, who make contemporary and modern covers of traditional Slovenia song under the leadership of accordion player and composer Janez Dovč. For this occasion the permanent ensemble of Sounds of Slovenia, including excellent Slovenian musicians like Anja Bukovec, Tinkara Kovač, Eva Hren, Brina Vogelnik, and Irena Preda, will be joined by top opera singer Juan Vasle and choirs of Slovenes living abroad.

The accompanying programme will include film screenings on the topic of expatriates organised by Kinoatelje from Gorica, and three exhibitions – one presents the work of visiting painters; the second presents Slovenes around the world during independence; while the third showcases the works of an Argentinian artist of Slovenian background. In addition to this, there will be a performance with experiments for children, a meeting of the Council for Slovenes in Neighbouring Countries and the Council for Slovenes Abroad with the Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia, and in the afternoon a round table on the topic of the position of Slovenes around the world. At the end of July, the series of events will conclude with the 4th football tournament of Slovenes living abroad.

On 1st July, Ljubljana will live for this meeting, for this celebration of Slovenian culture, for the stories, poems, thoughts and dreams from near and far.

Home is like a house which time cannot destroy. Home is the place which is most difficult to replace; it is the earth beneath our feet and the skies above our head, the combination of greens and blues turning into a new dawn. We come home when our path reaches and crosses its destination, when things begin making sense, and meeting people is an occasion for joy.

Welcome everyone – let us revive old friendships and make new ones. Let us hear the songs which instilled us with courage long time and listen to the words which will give us hope in tomorrow and here and now.

So you can get to know Slovenia and its sights, the Slovenian Tourist Board has prepared tourist arrangements for all four seasons with very attractive prices. More information on the packages is available at Homecoming Slovenia 2011.

]]>Press Releasenews-2061Tue, 10 May 2011 13:53:00 +0200The Minister for Slovenians Abroad, Boštjan Žekš, received the Mayor of Cleveland, Frank G. Jackson, and a delegation from Clevelandhttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2061/
The Minister for Slovenians Abroad, Boštjan Žekš, received the Mayor of Cleveland, Frank G. Jackson,...The Minister for Slovenians Abroad, BoštjanŽekš, received the Mayor ofCleveland, Frank G. Jackson, and a delegation from Cleveland on 9 May 2011. The delegation included representatives of the Slovenian community in the United States of America - Cleveland city councillors Michael D. Polensek and Joe Cimperman and the Dean of Cleveland State University, Greg Sadlek.

Slovenians migrated en masse to the USA in the 19th century and the first decades of the 20th century, another wave of migrants followed in 1945. The structure of the Slovenian ethnic community has changed considerably since the beginning of the 20th century. Slovenian-born immigrants were a majority in this community at the beginning of the 20th century. The generations born in the USA have taken a leading role since. US-born descendants of immigrants comprise almost 90 per cent of the Slovenian immigrant community in the USA.

In the 1990 census in the USA, 124,437 persons stated they were of Slovenian descent, of whom 87,500 persons (70.3%) stated Slovenian origin as the only or the first origin (the census allowed the stating of one or more origins). Slovenian national awareness greatly increased with the independence of Slovenia in 1991, so that in a 2000 census, 175,099 persons stated they were of Slovenian descent. Today, three quarters of the Slovenians in the USA live in six states - Ohio (49,598), Pennsylvania (14,584), Illinois (11,743), Minnesota (6,614), Wisconsin (6,478) and California.

Unofficial estimates of the number of Slovenians and their descendants in the USA are considerably higher, ranging from 300,000 to 600,000. With decades and new generations, the vast majority of them were integrated into US society, and a rather small number actively participate in social, cultural and other events organised by the Slovenian community. However, several hundred compatriots, sometimes even several thousand, still gather for major events.

Slovenian ‘national homes’, associations, and Catholic parishes and support organisations are essential to maintaining national identity. The majority of organisations operate in English and Slovenian, and also publish bulletins. Radio shows and electronic media are gaining importance. Four radio shows in Slovenian are broadcast in Cleveland alone; most organisations have their own websites, while the website ClevelandSlovenian.com has emerged as a leading web medium, featuring selected news items from Cleveland and elsewhere and various links to other media, associations, parishes etc.

Both young and adult descendants of Slovenian immigrants are expanding their knowledge of Slovenian language and culture in Slovenian schools. A Slovenian museum and archives were established in Cleveland in 2008, and began working regularly in refurbished premises in the summer of 2009.

A centre for Slovenian studies was opened at the beginning of 2009 within Cleveland State University, with the aim of encouraging cooperation between Slovenian and US universities, exchanging professors, teachers and students, promoting Slovenian science and culture at US universities etc.

]]>Press Releasenews-2056Fri, 06 May 2011 14:41:00 +0200Co-operation between the Republic of Slovenia and the indigenous Slovenian national community in neighbouring countrieshttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2056/
The Government adopted the Economic co-operation strategy between the Republic of Slovenia and the...The Government adopted the Economic co-operation strategy between the Republic of Slovenia and the indigenous Slovenian national community in neighbouring countries until 2020.

The goal of the strategy is a synchronised, synergetic and strategic approach by all relevant economic stakeholders from Slovenia and neighbouring countries (state authorities, companies, legislative bodies, forums, minority associations, diplomatic and consular representations, other economic stakeholders, as well as individuals on both sides of the borders) – the amalgamation and alignment of capital, know-how, experience, human resources and activities. Such actions would fortify existing economic activities and create new ones in areas inhabited by the Slovenian national community and within the Republic of Slovenia; additionally, they would increase competitiveness in third country markets with a view to establishing a more homogeneous vision of economic co-operation between the expatriate community and their home country.

The Government’s Office for Slovenians Abroad named a permanent working group to execute the strategy. The work will be supervised by the Office. The working group includes representatives of economic organisations belonging to the independent Slovenian national community in neighbouring countries. The working group’s tasks are harmonisation, mutual notification and information sharing, alignment, consulting and final economic co-operation; the drafting of content and forwarding of annual economic co-operation plans between the Republic of Slovenia and the indigenous Slovenian national community in neighbouring countries; the drafting of reports and reviews of cross-border co-operation projects.

The content and forward annual plan contains a number of events this year which particularly emphasise economic co-operation between the RS and the indigenous national community in neighbouring countries. A special conference will review the possibilities of Slovenian financial institutions participating in expatriate day-to-day-life. In co-operation with the Institute for Ethnic Studies, the Office will organise a round table to analyse economic stakeholders already active in cross-border co-operation and those that could add to the economic development of border areas. On 17 May 2011 at 9am, the Mons Hotel in Ljubljana (Vurnik Hall) will host the Slovenian Economic Association of Trieste, accompanied by the Office and other economic organisations from the indigenous national community in neighbouring countries, and their conference on ‘Including the Young in Cross-Border Economic Processes’.

Last year’s content and forward plan, sponsored by the Slovenian Economic Association of Klagenfurt and the Office for Slovenians Abroad, also included a cross-border business conference entitled ‘Go Austria! Opportunities for Slovenian Businesses in Austria’.

]]>Press Releasenews-2044Wed, 27 Apr 2011 12:43:00 +0200Minister Dr Žekš is pleased with the outcome of negotiations in Austrian Carinthia http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2044/
At the Office for Slovenians Abroad, we welcome the agreement reached yesterday between...At the Office for Slovenians Abroad, we welcome the agreement reached yesterday between representatives of the three umbrella organisations of the Carinthian Slovenians and representatives of the Carinthian and Austrian authorities on bilingual signposts and the package of measures for the improvement of the situation and the activities of the Slovenian minority in Carinthia.

“This agreement is a compromise between the wishes of both sides, and like any good compromise, it does not please either side. Thus, we are also not fully satisfied with the agreement,” stated Minister Žekš upon the conclusion of the meeting yesterday. “However, we are sure,” he continued, “that this partial solution will significantly contribute to improving the situation of the Slovenian minority in Austria and to improving the climate, which will enable the resolution of other problems and the implementation of the remaining obligations of the Austrian State Treaty. We find it somewhat unusual that the achieved agreement is to be monitored in the field (by research) in Carinthia, but we are certain that this will not impede the concluded agreement, because we believe that the majority of the population in Carinthia, regardless of their nationality, want a solution.”

“It should be pointed out that this agreement came about mainly because of the uniform approach of all three umbrella organisations of the Carinthian Slovenians, which, in spite of all their differences, managed to harmonise their views on key problems and entered into the negotiations uniformly,” said the Minister. He also stressed that all three umbrella organisations have earned this agreement: “That is, those who have contributed to improving mutual relations by consulting with the German-speaking population and by joint actions in the past, as well as those who have – by means of clear demands and legal procedures – energetically stressed the non-compliance of Article 7 of the Austrian State Treaty.”

]]>Press Releasenews-2027Tue, 12 Apr 2011 09:56:00 +0200Now is the time for reflection and not the time for fighting”, said Žekš.http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2027/
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Žbogar and Minister for Slovenians Abroad, Žekš invited...Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Žbogar and Minister for Slovenians Abroad, Žekš invited representatives of the three umbrella organisations of Slovenians living in Austrian Carinthia to discuss in detail the content of discussions held between the Slovenian minority and the relevant Austrian party which took place on April 1, 2011 in Klagenfurt, Austrian Carinthia.

The following persons were present at the today’s meeting: Dr. Šturm, the President of the Association of Slovenian Organisations, Mr. Sadovnik, the president of the Union of Carinthian Slovenians and Mr. Olip, the representative of the National Council of Carinthian Slovenians. The President of NCCS, Dr. Inzko, provided an apology for his non-attendance due to other urgent duties in BiH.

Slovenian representatives from Austrian Carinthia gave the ministers a presentation of their perspectives regarding the continuation of the discussions about topographical bilingual signposts and the content of the package of measures for the protection of Slovenian national minority in Austrian Carinthia.

“Slovenia will only support those solutions which will be acceptable for the entire national community in Austrian Carinthia,” said Minister Žbogar and expressed his expectation that legitimate requirements of the Slovenian minority will be respected with the agreement.

The Presidents Šturm and Sadovnik presented the course of the Friday’s discussion and thanked for a strong support by the Slovenian Government with regard to the endeavours of the Slovenian minority in solving open issues. In the continuation of the discussion, all three representatives of the minority expressed their conviction that negotiations may be successfully concluded in the event some corrections of the current proposal will be reached with the Austrian party.

After the discussion Minister Žbogar assessed as follows: “We hope that the process will conclude in such a manner that Slovenian minority will be satisfied.” We all see that there is a possibility to continue with discussions since the negation process is not concluded yet. At the meeting we reached an agreement regarding the future path and further steps of the Slovenian Government. ”

Minister Žekš added that he agrees that a compromise is acceptable for us only “if all three umbrella organisations will agree with it and if it is assessed that thee agreement is not forced by the Austrian party. Now is the time for reflection and not the time for fighting”, said Žekš.

Ministers assured that Slovenia would continue to strive for an integrated attainment of all commitments with regard to the Slovenian minority in Austrian Carinthia and Styria given by Austria pursuant to Article 7 of the Austrian National Treaty.

]]>Press Releasenews-2033Mon, 11 Apr 2011 12:07:00 +0200Minister For Slovenians Abroad, Member of the Academy, Dr. Žekš Visits Slovenian Community in Sweden and Denmark http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2033/
The Minister of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad, Member of the Academy, Dr. Žekš,...The Minister of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad, Member of the Academy, Dr. Žekš, attended the general meeting of the in Malmö on Saturday, 9 April 2011. The Slovenian Association, presided by Mr. Ciril Stopar for many years, unites eleven Slovenian societies in Sweden and has more than 1100 members alltogether. Members of the Management Board of the Slovenian Association meet twice a year – in March or April at the General Meeting and in November during the Autumn Conference. Each year Mr. Stopar prepares the in 40 copies in which the work of the Association carried out in the past year is described, and accompanied with photographs, financial and business report, the plan of work for the next year and the guidelines of the Association for the coming three years. Every second year one of societies, together with the Slovenian Association, organises the Slovenian Cultural Gathering, an event for all societies in Sweden.

The Association issues the (550 copies). The editor-in-chief is Mrs. Avguština Budja. The General meeting took place in the premises of the Slovenian Cultural Society Planika in Malmö. Minister Žekš thanked the participants for their endeavours to preserve Slovenianism in Sweden and emphasised the importance of Slovenian societies in preserving the Slovenian identity abroad. The General meeting was also attended by mag. Metoda Mikuž, temporarily holding the office of the chargé d’affaires at the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in Sweden.

The following day, in Copenhagen, Minister Žekš met scientists of Slovenian origin living in Denmark. In their discussions they agreed that co-operation and maintaining contacts between Slovenians at home and abroad is important. The meeting was organised by the Ambassador of the Republic of Slovenia in Denmark, Mr. Bogdan Benko.

]]>Press Releasenews-2032Mon, 11 Apr 2011 12:01:00 +0200Slovenian Minority in Austrian Carinthia on the Same Roadhttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2032/
The Minister for Slovenians Abroad Dr. Boštjan Žekš welcomes a wise decision made by the National...The Minister for Slovenians Abroad Dr. Boštjan Žekšwelcomes a wise decision made by the National Representatives’ Panel of the National Council of Carinthian Slovenians to continue negotiations’ with the Austrian Party and find in this manner the most adequate compromise proposal which will include a solution to all open questions between the Slovenian minority on one side and Austrian regional and federal Government on the other. Minister Žekš evaluates as very important the message that representatives of the Slovenian minority have demanded only a minimum increase of the number of signposts therefore not departing significantly from the current compromise.

The other two Slovenian umbrella organisations – the Association of Slovenian Organisation and the Union of Carinthian Slovenians - will make a decision regarding the proposed compromise this week. The first organisation will discuss and handle the current compromise proposal on its session on Thursday, 14. April, and the second will request the opinion from its members who are supposed to decide about the proposal on the same day. Our Office believes that these two umbrella organisations of Slovenians in Austrian Carinthia will adopt such standpoints likely to be mutually harmonised in such a manner that all three umbrella organisations of Slovenians in Austria Carinthia will act jointly in further negotiations.

With this regard Minister Žekš also highlights a positive response by the State Secretary from the Office of the Austrian Chancellor, Mr. Josef Ostermayer, stating that he is also willing to continue negotiations with the representatives of all three Slovenian umbrella organisations which was communicated in his first response to the Saturday’s decision of the National Representatives’ Panel.

Minister Žekš marked as important that it is the most important for the Slovenian minority living in Austrian Carinthia to remain unified with regard to their demands which was again proven by the Presidents of all there Carinthian umbrella organisations on Sunday, 10. April, when meeting the Austrian Federal President, Heinz Fischer. The President of the Association of Slovenian Organisations, Dr. Marjan Sturm, the President of the National Council of Carinthian Slovenians, Dr. Valentin Inzko and the President of the Union of Carinthian Slovenians, Bernard Sadovnik, assured the President Fischer that "as regards these negotiations it is not the matter of percentages and that this is not a decisive factor when determining the number of bilingual signposts". It is this last position that Minister Žekš particularly welcomes. “Last but not least, it is necessary to talk about quality and not quantity, “ highlighted Minister Žekš.

The Minister is convinced that representatives of all three Slovenian umbrella organisations in Carinthia will demonstrate their notion of responsibility in the concluding phase of negotiations and by trusting the future find a solution by means of common consent, similar to what was said by the Austrian Federal President Fischer during the Sunday’s discussions.

]]>Press Releasenews-2034Wed, 06 Apr 2011 12:12:00 +0200Explanatiory note regarding Statement by Dr Jesih, State Secretary at the Government Office for Slovenians Abroad, Regarding Agreement in Carinthian http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/2034/
Lately, numerous incorrect interpretations have appeared in the media with regard to the statement...Lately, numerous incorrect interpretations have appeared in the media with regard to the statement made by the State Secretary at the Office of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad, Dr. Boris Jesih, referring to the Friday’s agreement between the Slovenian minority and representatives of the Austrian Regional and Federal Government in Austrian Carinthia. The agreement referred to open questions between the Slovenian minority and Austrian authorities and their solutions. On Saturday, 22 April 2011, Jesih gave a short statement for the Slovenian Press Agency. The entire statement is published in the continuation of the text. The news was published on the web page of the SPA on the same day, at 17:48 in particular:

The Office for Slovenians Abroad has positively assessed the fact that the agreement was reached, and, certainly, “both, we and the minority, would wish the agreement to be even better”, said State Secretary to SPA.

At the moment, however, they find it the most important, that the minority has got enough time to examine whether this agreement is of such nature to be finally approved. It is also important, has highlighted , that all the three representatives of the minority held a uniform opinion regarding the agreement.

The summer school is dedicated to everybody who wishes to learn Slovenian. Participants need to be at least 18 years old, whereas younger candidates may attend the Young Summer School Programme.

Application deadline: participants must submit their application until 20 June 2011. Slovenians from neighbouring countries and descendants of Slovenian emigrants may apply for scholarship for a two-week morning course. Application deadline: 15 May 2011 (prijavnica).

Two morning courses of Slovenian language will be available for participants:

4-week course: 4 – 29 July 2011

2-week course. 4. – 15. July 2011 or 18 – 29 July 2011.

Everybody who wishes to deepen their knowledge of Slovenian may apply to the afternoon courses available for them by offering various contents: conversation classes with phonetics for beginners, conversation classes for advanced students and Slovenian Literature and Culture classes for advanced students. For everybody upgrading his/her Slovenian the following additional courses will be available: Conversation classes for advanced students, Slovenian Literature and Culture, Examination preparation for the exam in Slovenian at the medium and high level.

All courses will take place in the Secondary Medical School in Ljubljana (Poljanska cesta 61, Ljubljana). At the end of the course all participants will receive an official certificate confirming they have attended the course of Slovenian Language by the Faculty of Arts in Ljubljana. In addition to the language course a varied accompanying programme will also take place which will be dedicated to learning Slovenian culture, history and contemporary society. Cultural customs will be presented in various workshops, participants will meet with famous and interesting Slovenians, Slovenian movie or a theatre performance will be shown, a visit to the concert is planned and there will also be time for some sport activities. The accompanying programme will take place in the afternoon and in the evening. Its costs are already included in the tuition fee. The programme is partially translated into English which enables beginners to understand the content and partially it is performed in Slovenian language thus making it a direct complement of the language course. Prior to the commencement of the Summer School the programme will be published on web pages of the Centre For Slovenian Language.

]]>Press Releasenews-1999Wed, 23 Mar 2011 13:11:00 +0100“Small Hole in Thin Iron Curtain,” Dr. Žekš http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1999/
Yesterday, on 22 March 2011, Minister Žekš responsible for Slovenians Abroad attended a ceremony... Yesterday, on 22 March 2011, Minister Žekš responsible for Slovenians Abroad attended a ceremony dedicated to the 30th anniversary of Open Border Project held in the Hrpelje Cultural Centre. By means of this celebration Hrpelje-Kozina paid tribute to a historical event held in 1981 when the then Italian-Yugoslavian border was opened for one day. Kvartet Utrip, Andreaja Hrvatin and reciters carried out the cultural programme.

The initiators of this unique event from 30 years ago were the then Mayors of two municipalities, Mr Boris Bernetič, the then Mayor of Sežana Municipality and, Mr Edvin Švab, the then Mayor of Dolina Municipality. The first joint initiative signified an important contribution to peace, cooperation and friendship among people from both sides of the border. The idea was very courageous and progressive for that period of time since people could not imagine that it might be possible to cross the border freely, not even for one day.

In his speech, the speaker of honour at the event, the Member of the Academy, Dr. Boštjan Žekš pointed out: “that in that period of time the Iron Curtain ran on the then Italian and Yugoslavian border, a bit thinner than elsewhere but, nevertheless, the Iron Curtain in which the two courageous mayors made a hole”. This hole significantly changed the thinking of people from both sides of the border. In the continuation of his speech Minister Žekš highlighted the importance of understanding the time and place and added: “that apparent miracles may only happen if the signs of time are well assessed; and this also apply to the present time.” The then Mayors Švab and Bernetič understood such signs of time in due time and took advantage of them to achieve significant mental leaps. In the end the Minister stressed that he is convinced that: “in peace, too, we will be able to look for the right solutions for the Karst region and together we will manage to win”.

All speakers at the event highlighted their admiration for the initiators’ idea. The current Mayor of the Hrpelje-Kozina Municipality, Mr. Zvonko Benčič Midre, said: “the deepest respect to two visionaries who presented the idea of nations without borders at such early time”. The Mayoress of Dolina Municipality, Mrs Fulvia Premolin, who together with the Slovenian colleague successfully continues the tradition of the Open Border said in her speech: »I am not afraid of future as past actions of my forerunners are a model I can be proud of”. The current mayors of both municipalities try to spread the idea to our neighbouring country in the South. That is why the Open Border initiative was passed on to the Mayor of the Lanišče Municipality, Mr Neven Mikac who accepted with pleasure.

At the celebration the initiators of the first Open Border event held 30 years ago, Edvin Švab and Boris Bernetič, were presented with an award for this important step. In their speech they both demonstrated modesty. The then Mayor of Dolina Municipality, Edvin Švab, pointed out: “if there was any visionary present it was the collective visionary of those who survived the war.” He continued that relations between Yugoslavia and Italy were then becoming more responsible and were waiting for an event where somewhere “a hole” would be opened. In the end he said that: “it is nice that this march receives such a great deal of attention and that we all can be proud of the initiative from 30 years ago”. A realization which in the opinion of Boris Bernetič significantly changed the perception of people at the border was that “in the event a border opens nothing particular happens”.

In order not to have “any particular events” at the border in the future we would like to kindly invite you to attend the 31st march of the Path of Friendship and Tribute to the Open Border event from 1981 taking place next year and in this manner contribute to the understanding and respect among people. Welcome!

]]>Press Releasenews-1990Mon, 14 Mar 2011 13:38:00 +0100Round Table “Young People in Slovenia and Abroad – Social Responsibility and Entrepreneurship”http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1990/
On Saturday, 12 March 2011, within the framework of an international conference - “Social...

On Saturday, 12 March 2011, within the framework of an international conference - “Social Responsibility and Challenges of 2011: Young people at the Interface of Global Changes” - a special scientific, professional, cultural and social gathering entitled “Young People in Slovenia and Abroad – Social Responsibility and Entrepreneurship” took place in Maribor. In co-operation with the Office of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad the event was organised by the Institute for the Development of Social Responsibility within the framework of events celebrating the 20th anniversary of the independence of Slovenia.

The round table was opened by the State Secretary of the Office for Slovenians Abroad, Dr. Boris Jesih who in his address pointed out that in the past young people, in spite of a belief that the world stands on young people, were pushed behind. Only in the past few years they were subject to certain initiatives, among other matters, the last session of the Council for Slovenians Abroad was dedicated to this topic, and an Action Plan regarding the co-operation and support to young Slovenians abroad was prepared. A special attention will be dedicated to young people within the framework of the joint meeting of Slovenians from all over the world entitled “Welcome Home” which will take place on 1 July 2011 in Ljubljana; its organisation has been undertaken by the Office of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad.

Successful young entrepreneurs of Slovenian origin who work around the world, representatives of minority organisations and recipients of the Horus award, the Slovenian award for social responsibility actions, participated at the round table.

]]>Press Releasenews-1989Mon, 14 Mar 2011 13:33:00 +0100Minister Žekš received the Member of Honour Award by the SASA Scientific Research Centrehttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1989/
On Friday, 11 March 2011, the Scientific Research Centre (SRC)of the Slovenian Academy of Sciences...On Friday, 11 March 2011, the Scientific Research Centre (SRC)of the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts (SASA) organised a traditional event “Generation of Science”. The highest awards for scientific achievements in the field of social sciences and humanities were awarded at the event for the seventeenth time.

At this year’s event SRC SASA conferred awards for the work accomplished by three scientists. The most prestigious award awarded by SRC SASA to an individual who has achieved top scientific and research results and/or significantly contributed to the promotion of SRC SASA at home and abroad is the Honourable Member of SRC SASA Award. This year the award was conferred to the Member of the Academy, Prof. Dr. Boštjan Žekš, top researcher in the field of physics, regular professor for biophysics at the Faculty of Medicine and at the Faculty of Mathematics and Physics of the University in Ljubljana and a scientific advisor in the Department for Theoretical Physics of the Jožef Štefan Institute. His scientific work is enormous in particular in the field of theoretical physics of condensed matter and biophysics and comprises more than 15 pieces. In 1960 he received the Boris Kidrič award, in 1988 he was conferred the Kidrič award together with Adrijan Levstik and in 1993, together with Sašo Svetina the award of Slovenia for scientific and research work. In 1987 he became a member of the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts and was its President during 2002 and 2008. Prof. Dr. Žekš, Member of the Academy, has a reputation of extraordinary contributing to the science in general. He is respected for the promotion of Slovenian science in the international arena, for initiatives in the field of improving the scientific and research work and the quality of scientific results. He champions the rise in the quality of domestic research and observance of international relevance of home research in all fields, especially in the field of humanities (summarised according to SRC SASA).

Two more awards were also conferred at the event.The SRC silver medal was received by Dr. Mitja Prelovšek for his scientific and research work in the field of caving and Karts. He used to meet Karst when he was a student, he was an active speleologist functioning within the Ljubljana Caving Society, and he deepened significantly his research during the preparation of his dissertation “Today’s Speleogenetic Processes, Factors and Forms in Epiphreatic Zone” at the Institute for Research of Karst at the SRC SASA. The SRC SASA gold medal was awarded to a regular Professor, Dr. Darja Mihelič, an internationally recognised scientist in the field of historical sciences and the first regular professor for history at the University in Ljubljana. In her scientific and research work she dedicated her studies to numerous questions from Slovenian older history, the history of medieval Primorje, economic and social history and a question regarding the pre-modern historiography.

The event was enriched by a performance of a vocalists’ group Insula Mamoriae and the history of the Scientific and Research Centre of the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts was presented during the event. The event was followed by a social gathering of winners and invited guests. ]]>Press Releasenews-1987Fri, 11 Mar 2011 13:11:00 +0100Minister Žekš visited Prekmurje region and participated at preparatory meeting of a committee for the organisation of the Pavel’s Year. http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1987/
The Minister for Slovenians Around the World, Dr. Boštjan Žekš, visited Prekmurje today (11. 3....

The Minister for Slovenians Around the World, Dr. Boštjan Žekš, visited Prekmurje today (11. 3. 2011) and participated at a working consultation regarding the progress of activities held within the framework of this year’s Pavel’s year. The event was organised by the Dr. Šiftar’s Foundation Institution.

In his press statement following the conclusion of the consultation the Minister communicated his message, saying, “a memorial year dedicated to Avgust Pavel who connected three nations with his actions is a great opportunity to remember a great man and great work of a person who needs to be respected”. He continued that “such anniversaries are opportunities to look forward and not only backward. In this year of memories three parts which were connected already at that time will get connected again. Connecting people is important for the perseverance of culture.”

Avgust Pavel was born in Cankova and together with his family stayed in Austrian Carinthia for some years. He inspired Slovenians living outside Slovenia with his linguistic skills – as a matter of fact, he spoke Slovenian, Hungarian and German. Afterwards he studied in Budapest, and later worked as a linguist, ethnographer, poet, assistant professor at the Szeged University and as a principal in a museum. He strived to connect Hungary and Slovenia. It is because of his life principle regarding a multiple identity that in Potrna in 1998 a cultural centre of Styrian Slovenians was named after him – the Pavel’s House.

Today, on 10 March 2011, an international conference – “Social responsibility and challenges of 2011: Young people at the interface of global changes” – was opened in Maribor which was organised by the Institute for the Development of Social Responsibility (IRDO) in co-operation with the Government Office for Slovenians Abroad. The conference which this year is dedicated to the issue of young people as special social group will try to answer numerous current questions which are linked to connections among young people, a crisis of a modern society, value crisis, social responsibility and uncertain future of young people in Slovenia and elsewhere around the world.

The participants of the conference were addressed by Prof. Dr. Boštjan Žekš, a Minister for Slovenians Abroad.>He expressed his thanks to the organisers of the conference for being invited to the conference which puts young people at a forefront. “The Office of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad is aware of the significance of this specific social group, and we are concerned that young people of Slovenian origin living in neighbouring countries and abroad and young people from Slovenia almost do not connect among themselves. This may not positively influence the existence of Slovenianism in the world in the future” said the Minister. Further on he stressed that social responsibility cannot be imposed by the law since this approach would not lead us anywhere in the long term. The only right manner for the promotion of social responsibility are conferences and meetings such as the one present today which contribute to a more structured perspective about the mentioned topic.

Introductory speeches were followed by a press conference at which, in addition to the Minister responsible for Slovenians Abroad, Prof. Dr. Boštjan Žekš, the following persons also participated: Franc Hočevar, an advisor to the President of the Republic, Dr. Danilo Türk, mag. Peter Debeljak, a director of the Office of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia for Young People, Dr. Andrej Fištravec, the President of the Programme Committee of the Conference and Anita Hrast, a director of the IRDO Institute and the President of the Conference’s Organisation Committee.

The Minister for Slovenians Abroad, dr.Boštjan Žekš attended the 3rd Forum of Karst Municipalities Mayors taking place on Friday 4 march 2011 in Sežana. The event was organised by the Sežana Municipality and the Zgonik Municipality from the neighbouring Italy. Within the framework of the meeting the participants discussed the establishment of the European Association for Territorial Co-operation and presented the Karst District 2 Project.

In his speech Minister Žekš highlighted the importance of European cross-border projects for the creation and upkeep of good relations between Slovenia and Italy. In his speech he pointed out that “projects of this kind bring beneficial results and that it is the most important that people meet, make decisions together and co-ordinate themselves with regard to potential problems”. After the conclusion of the Forum the Minister Žekš attended the opening of the Karst Information Centre, an investment which was financed within the framework of the activities relating the project of cross-border cooperation Kras – Carso. The project is about a programme of cross-border co-operation between Slovenia and Italy 2007-2013 which will last for, as expected, 40 months and will cost around three millions euro. The lead partner of the project is the Sežana Municipality and there are 16 participating partners, mostly Slovenian and Italian Karst municipalities. People gathered at the celebration were addressed by the Mayor of the Sežana Municipality, Davorin Terčon, Maria Teresa Bassa Poropat, the President of the Trieste region, and the Minister for Slovenians Abroad, dr. Boštjan Žekš. Upon the opening of the Centre, the Minister said, “that Karts should not be divided into Slovenian and Italian part. It is an integrated area. Karst is just one, and as such it is a mere wealth. And as such it cannot be a museum. It must be alive.”

]]>Press Releasenews-1972Thu, 03 Mar 2011 09:41:00 +0100Prešeren Laureate Miroslav Košuta Paid Honour in Trieste http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1972/
On Friday 25 February 2011, in the premises of its Trieste office, the Slovenian Cultural and...On Friday 25 February 2011, in the premises of its Trieste office, the SlovenianCultural and Economic Association organised a celebration to honour this year ‘s Prešeren Laureate, a poet, Miroslav Košuta.This year’s Laureate, besides his poetic creative work and activity in Slovenian theatre and publication, was also engaged in the leadership of the umbrella organisation in the field of culture. The Minister for Slovenians Abroad, Dr. BoštjanŽekš also attended the celebration.

On behalf of the umbrella organisation the introductory speech at the celebration was delivered by the President of the Slovenian Cultural and Economic Association, Mr. Rudi Pavšič, who thanked the Laureate for his contribution to the organisation; this was many times critical but also sincere and valuable.Minister Žekš joined in congratulating and expressing good thoughts to the Laureate and stressed, “the Slovenian literary arena gives the Prešeren Award great significance. That is why it is certainly deserved although artists do not willingly award it to somebody from across the border.”The Minister continued, “that Slovenians know how to give our best when in a defence position therefore it is, as a matter of fact, healthy that now and then somebody poses a threat to us”.

]]>Press Releasenews-1970Wed, 23 Feb 2011 08:53:00 +0100The State secretary Dr. Boris Jesih on a Visit in Hungaryhttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1970/
In the light of preparations for the meeting of the mixed Slovenian and Hungarian Commission which...

In the light of preparations for the meeting of the mixed Slovenian and Hungarian Commission which is supposed to take place this year, the State Secretary of the Government Office of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad, Dr. Boris Jesih paid a working visit to Budapest on Tuesday, 22 February 2011. At the official discussions with partners from Hungary the topics discussed referred to the work of the mixed commission and the position of the Slovenian minority in Hungary.

The mixed Slovenian and Hungarian Commission should have met last year but this was not possible due to parliamentary elections in Hungary. Following the invitation given by the Co-President of the mixed Slovenian and Hungarian Commission, Mrs. Zsuzsanne Répás, the Deputy of the State Secretary for the National Politics, Dr. Boris Jesih came to the meeting in Budapest where the discussion was mainly held with regard to preparations for the XIIth session of the mixed commission. The Hungarian interlocutor showed her willingness to solve open questions and stressed that the Hungarian side was making steps to arrange the session of the Commission in the first half of this year.

On the same day, the State Secretary met with the Deputy of the State Secretary for Minorities and the Church, Dr.Latorcaijem Csabo –they mainly discussed the position of Slovenian minority in the Raba region. In the end the State Secretary met with the Deputy of the State Secretary for Higher Education Lászlóm Duxom –they discussed the possibilities for the preparation and financing of a project concerning the new scientific Slovenian and Hungarian dictionary. Slovenian scientists have already started with their work and the project is important to promote culture and language between two nations. At the same time the existence of such a dictionary is of key importance for bilingual areas in the Raba region and Prekmurje.

]]>Press Releasenews-1969Fri, 18 Feb 2011 08:51:00 +0100Minister Žekš and Žbogar received Representatives of Slovenian National Community living in Austria.http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1969/
In Ljubljana, on Friday, 18 February 2011, the Minister for Slovenians Abroad, Dr. Boštjan Žekš, and...In Ljubljana, on Friday, 18 February 2011, the Minister for Slovenians Abroad, Dr.Boštjan Žekš, and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Žbogar, met representatives of three umbrella organisations of Carinthian Slovenians.They were represented by Marjan Sturm, the President of the Association of Slovenian Organisations in Carinthia, Valentin Inzko, the President of the National Council of Carinthian Slovenians, and Bernard Sadovnik, the President of the Community of Carinthian Slovenians.The State Secretary from the Government Office of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad, Dr.Boris Jesih, the Ambassador of the Republic of Slovenia in Vienna, Aleksander Geržina, and the Counsel-General in Celovec, Dragica Urtelj, were also present at the meeting.

Representatives of Slovenian minority in Carinthia presented to ministers their standpoint for negotiations with the Austrian government as regards the solving of open issues which refer to the Slovenian minority living in Austria.

In the beginning of February, more precisely, on 3 February 2011, discussions between representatives of Carinthian Slovenians on one side and Carinthian Governor Gerhard Dörfler and Austrian State Secretary Josefom Ostermayer on the other side started. By means of these negotiations both parties wishes to come to an agreement which would bring a final solution to the position of the Slovenian minority in Austrian Carinthia.This does not only include the question regarding the placement of bilingual town sign posts.More important issue is the solving of other open questions which are of key importance for the existence and development of the Slovenian minority in Austria.Measures which should be taken have been included by the representatives of the Slovenian minority in the so called package of measures which was submitted to the Austrian side in the beginning of February.These measures refer to the improvement of the quality of lessons of Slovenian language in kindergartens and schools, the use of Slovenian language at Courts, in public administration and in various institutions (for example, elderly care institutions), the arrangement of a stable financing for minority media and the appropriate financing of the operation of organisations of Slovenian minority in the fields of culture, sport and education.

With regard to the fact that in the past days the question regarding the number of bilingual town signposts have been highlighted by the media, representatives of the minority assured to ministers Žekš and Žbogar their co-operation with the Austrian government.At the same time they pointed out that they had been waiting for such a solution for more decades but this was only one of open topics. Minority has also been waiting long for rights which are now included in the above-mentioned package of measures.That is why Minister Žekš supports a co-ordinated action of the Presidents of the three umbrella organisations of Carinthian Slovenians and is convinced that they will be able to find the appropriate solution.

]]>Press Releasenews-1968Fri, 18 Feb 2011 08:49:00 +0100In Rome 3rd Co-ordination Committee of Ministers from Slovenia and Italy http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1968/
Yesterday, on 17 February 2011, representative of both countries met at the 3rd Co-ordination...Yesterday, on 17 February 2011, representative of both countries met at the 3rd Co-ordination Committee of Ministers from Slovenia and Italy.Delegations were led by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of both countries, Minister Žbogar on the Slovenian side, and Minister Frattini on the Italian side.The State Secretary from the Government Office of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad, Dr.Boris Jesih also attended the meeting.

Slovenian minority living in Italy and Italian minority living in Slovenia was characterised as an important link between two countries while representing an immense challenge and responsibility for both countries.A clear response regarding the establishment of a working table functioning within the Italian Presidency of the Ministerial Council was given, that is, the establishment is to take place this spring.Slovenian minority in Italy has striven for long to get a permanent interlocutor on the Italian side in order to solve open issues. Slovenia has supported the minority and given it the needed assistance for these efforts.At the same time further development has taken place in the field of Slovenian culture in Italy.At the La Sapienza University in Rome, the greatest University in Italy, the Chair for the Slovenian language will be established and a professor for the Slovenian language will be appointed which will improve the position of Slovenian language within the framework of the university education in Italy.The Italian side has also adopted the decision regarding the establishment of the Slovenian Section at the Guiseppe Tartini Music Conservatorium in Trieste, starting with the school year 2011 – 2012.

Before the start of the meeting the participants welcomed good relations between the two countries which have been enhanced by a recent visit of the President of the State, Dr. Danilo Türk in Rome.At the meeting ministers discussed concrete problems and issues regarding the bilateral and regional co-operation and tried to find solutions for open questions.At the end of the meeting, Ministers Žbogar and Frattini signed a Joint Statement of Ministers.

]]>Press Releasenews-1967Tue, 15 Feb 2011 08:47:00 +0100Minister Žekš and Žbogar received Presidents of Umbrella Organisations from Neighbouring Italyhttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1967/
On Monday, 14 February 2011, when 10 years have passed since the adoption of the Protection Act...

On Monday, 14 February 2011, when 10 years have passed since the adoption of the Protection Act for the Slovenian minority in Italy, Minster Žekš and Minister Žbogar received representatives of umbrella organisations of Slovenian national community living in Italy.

The meeting was attended by Rudi Pavšič, the President of Slovenian Cultural and Economic Association (SKGZ), and Drago Štoka, the President of the Council of Slovenian Organisations (SSO). The State Secretary, Dr. Boris Jesih, Slovenian Ambassador in Rome, Mr. Iztok Mirošič and Slovenian Consul in Trieste, Mrs.Vlasta Valenčič Pelikan, were also present during the discussions.

Representatives of Slovenian national community evaluated relations between neighbouring countries - Slovenian and Italy - as good and mentioned that the atmosphere in the border area is more and more favourable for the minority. This atmosphere has been particularly marked by the meeting of Presidents of three neighbouring countries, Slovenia, Italy and Croatia, on the occasion of the Concert of Friendship taking place in Trieste in July of the last year and a recent State visit by the President of the Republic of Slovenia, Dr. Tűrk, in Rome. They expressed their wish that the cooperation between the countries would be enhanced even more and that the border territory will even more come to life as a common living place. They also pointed out that some positive moves have been made as regards the enforcement of the Protection Act.

The discussion was also held with regard to the establishment of a special working table functioning within the Italian Government where representatives of the Slovenian minority, Autonomous Region Friuli Venezia Guila and the Government of the Italian Republic would discuss the unsolved issues regarding the protection of Slovenians living in Italy.

]]>Press Releasenews-1966Tue, 15 Feb 2011 08:45:00 +0100The Presidents of SKGZ and SSO on the Occasion of 10th Anniversary of the Adoption of the Protection Act for Slovenians in Italyhttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1966/
Yesterday, 14.2.2011 at a press conference in Ljubljana, Presidents of both umbrella organisations...

Yesterday, 14.2.2011 at a press conference in Ljubljana, Presidents of both umbrella organisations of Slovenians living in Italy, SSO and SKGZ, Mr Pavšič and Mr Štoka welcomed the 38/2001 Act adopted ten years ago which gave legal recognition to Slovenian minority living in 32 municipalities.

The aim of the Act, which determines the territory on which protection norms are implemented, that is the region of Friuli Venezia Julia, is to regulate the internal organisation of the minority, its financing and to regulate the use of Slovenian language in the public life. For the first time the Act has given a legal recognition to Slovenians living in the Udine region and the achievement of the bilingual school in Špeter (San Pietro al Natiosone) represent this protection.

However, weaknesses in the implementation of the Act have remained, in particular in municipalities where Slovenian minority is not present as the majority of population. Some responsibility for the fact that not everything offered by the Act has been achieved is, as pointed out by Mr Pavšič, due to the minority itself. Some of these weaknesses are: the possibility for obtaining the bilingual personal documents, the changing of personal names into the original form and communication with official institutions in Slovenian language. Mr. Štoka pointed out that younger generation who is not well informed about this topic should be notified about the Act.

The minority is expecting better times as the atmosphere in the preceding period has changed. Fears of the Italian population have proven unjustified. Today Slovenia and its minority are seen as a positive reality through the eyes of the Italian public. The minority has great chances for the establishment of the minority table functioning within the Presidency of the Government of the Italian Republic which would enable a direct contact of the minority with Rome for the first time. The situation has begun to improve in the financial field but the minority expects a systemic solution for financing the minority. The Act brings about a guaranteed representation in the Italian parliament which has not happened before. The Presidents are of the opinion that today is the moment when this can take place. In a dialogue with the Italian State the assistance of Slovenia is expected – Slovenia may open up these questions at the upcoming meeting of both Governments taking place in Rome.

The FVG region has a special status particularly because of the presence of the Slovenian minority but according to Presidents the region does not value properly the Slovenian minority and it does not support it in the sufficient extent. For this reason, in particular, contacts between FVG and Slovenia need to be enhanced and a progress has already been achieved - the table for minority issues functioning within the framework of the mixed commission for the handling of common development questions between the Republic of Slovenia and the Autonomous Region of Friuli Venezia Gulia has come to life and it has met for two times in the present composition.

]]>Press Releasenews-1965Wed, 09 Feb 2011 08:43:00 +0100Call for Enrolment into Graduate and Uniform Master of Science Study Programmes for Study Year 2011/2012http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1965/
On Monday, 31 January 2011, a call for enrolment into graduate and uniform Master of Science study...On Monday, 31 January 2011, a call for enrolment into graduate and uniform Master of Science study programmes for study programmes 2011/2012 conducted by University in Ljubljana, University in Maribor, University of Primorska, University in Nova Gorica and by independent higher education institution was published.The first application period lasts from 10 February to 8 March 2011, and the second application period will take place from 22 to 29 August 2011. Information regarding free enrolment posts will be published on web pages of Universities’ Application Offices on 19 August 2011.Citizens from non-EU countries and Slovenians without Slovenian citizenship may apply to enrolment posts which are published in tables including enrolment posts for Slovenians without Slovenian citizenship and foreign citizens from non-EU countries.

The entire text of the tender is accessible following the web link:http://www.mvzt.gov.si/fileadmin/mvzt.gov.si/pageuploads/doc/dokumenti_visokosolstvo/razpis_za_vpis/Razpis_2011-1]]>Press Releasenews-1936Thu, 03 Feb 2011 10:17:00 +0100State Secretary, Boris Jesih, discussed cross-border cooperation with Slovenian community from neighbouring countrieshttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1936/
Today, on 26th January 2011, within the framework of the visit of the Government of the Republic of...Today, on 26th January 2011, within the framework of the visit of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia in Ptuj, the Podravje region, State Secretary Jesih met the director of Maribor Development Agency, director of the ZRS Bistra and representatives of the Slovenian national community from Austria and Hungary, who take care of the economic enhaancement of Slovenians living in the neighbouring countries and their connection with Slovenia (Slovenian Economic Association from Celovec (Klagenfurt), Society Article VII. from Gradec (Graz) and Slovenska Krajina Development Agency from Monošter (Szentgothard)).

A working meeting was held discussing the topic concerning the cross-border cooperation with Slovenian community in neighbouring counties. The participants of the meeting mentioned the results achieved and identified opportunities for further cooperation. They also highlighted some issues which they had encountered in the preparation and implementation of cross-border cooperation projects, in particular an insufficient provision of information concerning the methods of drawing on European Funds, difficulties in finding competent partners and ensuring financial shares for their own participation.

After the working meeting State Secretary Jesih visited the Olga Meglič Elementary School where current results and planned activities regarding the cooperation with the Jožef Košič bilingual Elementary School from Gornji Senik (Porabje) were presented.

]]>Press Releasenews-1935Wed, 26 Jan 2011 10:16:00 +010050th Regular Annual General Assembly of the Association of Slovenian Catholic Educational Societies from Goriziahttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1935/
On Tuesday, 25th January 2011, in the Lojze Bratuž Cultural Centre in Gorizia, the 50th regular...On Tuesday, 25th January 2011, in the Lojze Bratuž Cultural Centre in Gorizia, the 50th regular annual general assembly of the Association of Slovenian Catholic Educational Societies from Gorizia was held. The association which was established in Gorizia in 1959 unites twelve cultural associations working in the Gorizia region, municipalities of Števerjan (San Floriano del Collio), Gorica (Gorizia), Sovodjne ob Soči (Savogna d'Isonzo), Doberdob (Doberdo del Lago) and Ronki (Ronchi dei Legionari).

Extremely rich cultural activities which include choir activity were presented at the general assembly by its members. It is also worth mentioning the most important choir festival “Ceciljanka” which is attended by all member choirs , then the theatre activity, lectures and exhibitions, issuing of publications and other activities.The activity of the members of the association is mostly voluntary pointing out the cooperation of young generations. After this year's general assembly, Franca Padovan will continue to remain the President of the Association.

]]>Press Releasenews-1934Tue, 25 Jan 2011 10:15:00 +0100Mrs Ana Blatnik and Minister Žekš hope that situation in Carinthia has matured so as to resolve open issues with regard to Slovenian minorityhttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1934/
Today, on 25th January 2011, at the Office of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia for...

Today, on 25th January 2011, at the Office of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad, Minister Žekš received Mrs Ana Blatnik, a member of the Federal Council of the Republic of Austria who was elected on the list of Carinthian Social Democrats (SPÖ). Ana Blatnik is also the Vice President of the Association of Slovenian Organizations (ZSO) and the President of the Social Democratic Women of Carinthia. They discussed the situation of the indigenous Slovenian national community in Austrian Carinthia.

In the discussion Ana Blatnik highlighted some issues of a critical importance for Carinthian Slovenians emphasizing the resolving of the issue of bilingual tables and bilingual music school in Austrian Carinthia. She also pointed out that the time has come for a final solution of this issue but at the same time also stressed that »bilingualism is always alive and is not prescribed by the law".

The days in the beginning of February will be the key days showing whether both sides are ready to reach a compromise or not. Minister Žekš also agrees that 3rd February – the day when the Slovenian minority will meet the Austrian State Secretary Josef Ostermayerjem – »will be a significant one but not the final part of the story«. »On that day it will be seen if any solution is possible at all«, added the Minister and said that the current situation in Austrian Carinthia gives hope for a successful resolving of minority issues. During the discussion and at the press conference Mrs Ana Blatnik pointed out that all involved at the upcoming meetings will not discuss only the siting of bilingual tables but also the whole package of priorities with regard to the minority. This package will have to include solutions in relation to the financing of the Slovenian musical school as well as the viewpoints concerning Slovenian kindergartens and other projects of key importance for the Slovenian minority. According to the opinion of the member of the Austrian Federal Council all three Slovenian umbrella organizations in Carinthia must realize that »no ideal solution will be reached but a compromise will be made with which everyone will have to agree with".

Minister Žekš concluded the discussion with his conviction »that a positive atmosphere which is practically an imperative is necessary for a comprehensive resolving of the minority issue«. In the end Mrs Blatnik said that »a language is the wealth which must not be politically exploited«. And at the same time this is also an initiative which should be given to everyone involved in the resolving of the issue.

]]>Press Releasenews-1933Mon, 24 Jan 2011 10:14:00 +0100Minister Žekš at the Meeting of Slovenians from the Province of Udinehttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1933/
On 22nd January 2011 Dr. Boštjan Žekš, the Minister of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians...On 22nd January 2011 Dr. Boštjan Žekš, the Minister of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad, attended the traditional 41st New Year's Meeting of Slovenians from the Province of Udine which took place in Bovec.

As an introduction to this year's meeting, a round table on European cross-border cooperation between Slovenia and Italy was organized in the Stregulec’s House in Bovec. At the round table Minister Žekš pointed out the importance of joint cross-border projects for the development of the Slovenian minority in Italy.

In the continuation of the programme Minister Žekš attended a rich cultural programme held in the Cultural Center in Bovec and afterwards attended a social gathering event in the Alp Hotel in Bovec.

]]>Press Releasenews-1906Tue, 11 Jan 2011 11:22:00 +0100Meeting of Minister Žekš and Senator Blažinahttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1906/
Today, on 11 January 2011, Italian Senator Blažina and Minister Žekš met at the Government Office...Today, on 11 January 2011, Italian Senator Blažina and Minister Žekšmet at the Government Office for Slovenians Abroad.In their discussion they exchanged viewpoints and opinions regarding the current position of the Slovenian minority in Italy and then they presented their perspectives about the current situations at a press conference.

In her introduction Senator Blažina thanked for the Government’s commitment to appoint the Minister for Slovenians Abroad and evaluated this decision as a very positive one.In her opinion, the position of Slovenians in Italy is currently very good as positive movements have been made with regard to the relationship of the majority to the minority, and a general atmosphere in the Friuli-Venezia Julia region and in Italy is, as regards the relationship to the minority, also very positive. According to the Senator, symbolic events of the past years greatly contributed to this situation:the concert of friendship on the occasion of the meeting of three presidents and the performance of Pahor’s Nekropola in Slovenian in the Verdi Theatre in Trieste. These events will be followed by a visit of the President, Dr. Danilo Türk, in Rome taking place in the coming days.The Senator noticed a general movement for the better but she also drew attention to the fact that there are still areas with which the minority needs to deal with, as for example the education, the 2001 Protection Law regarding the protection of rights of the autochthonous Slovenian national minority which this year celebrates its 10th year anniversary.As she continued the Slovenian minority should use this milestone and on one hand analyse the existing situation and on the other hand examine the position of the minority and find out what are its goals and ideas for the future.With regard to the fact that for the period of the arriving two years financial funds have already been provided for the minority should think over its own organisations, performance and its role in Italy.Especially the fact that for the next two years the minority does not need to fight for financial funds should encourage the minority that it reorganizes itself and adapts itself to new requirements of the future.

Minister Žekš gave his consent to the Senator’s words and made a comment especially regarding a successful development of Slovenian schooling in Italy.He particularly expressed his enthusiasm for an increased enrolment of children of Italian parents in Slovenian schools and their performance.Quite a number of Italian children continue their schooling in Slovenia and receive successful results also in the international field.Such is an example of a student who in November 2010 was a part of the Slovenian team (in co-operation with the Faculty of Computer and Information Science and the National Institute of Chemistry) which participated at the premiere Synthetic Biology Competition (iGEM) taking place at MIT (USA) where it convincingly won the trophy.

“Extension and not the defence of Slovenianism is what makes the minority gain its value,” added Minister Žekš.The minority obviously must strive that Italian children will achieve a high level of knowledge of Slovenian while not diminishing the quality of lessons dedicated to Slovenian students.

At the end of a press conference Senator Blažina and Minister Žekš answered questions raised by journalists.At a question whether the minority, due to currently better relationships, should strive for the raise of financial funds, the speakers stressed that the minority must especially ask itself how to beneficially use the existing funds and only when it evaluates that there are not enough funds for existing activities it makes sense to discuss the raising of funds.Senator Blažina then added that the current general situation in Italy is such that all institutions should adapt their activities to financial capabilities which also applies for the Slovenian Permanent Theatre (SSG) in Trieste.But she emphasized that also the theatre, by using the existing financial resources, prepared a programme which is of qualtiy and worth of the institution mentioned.

At the end the Senator added that quite soon the Slovenian minority will be given an appropriate interlocutor in Rome.In these days the last coordination meetings have been taking place on the basis of which the Minority Table will be formed within the of the Government of the Italian Republic in which representatives of the minority, ministries of the Italian Government and FVG region will be present. According to the Senator the Table is expected to start its operation within a period of one month.

]]>Press Releasenews-1904Mon, 27 Dec 2010 15:30:00 +0100Session of the Working Table for Minority Questions between RS and FVGhttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1904/
“This minority table wishes to overcome old divisions and already today’s meeting has shown that...“This minority table wishes to overcome old divisions and already today’s meeting has shown that there are many common topics and challenges which link us together,” is the opinion of the Chairmen-in-office, the State Secretary Jesih and the Regional Councillor De Anna.

Today, in the Gravisi Palace in Koper – in which there are premises of the Italian national community living in the Republic of Slovenia – within the framework of the Mixed Commission for the discussion of common development questions between the Republic of Slovenia and the Autonomous Region of Friuli Venezia Julia the working table for minority questions took place.The Working table is presided by the State Secretary Dr. Boris Jesih on the Slovenian side, while on the Italian side, the Chairman-in-Office is the Regional Councillor Elio De Anna. As regards the Slovenian side, the representatives of the following state authorities also take part at the working table: the Office of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia for National Minorities, Ministry of Education and Sport, Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Government Office for Local Self-Government and Regional Policy. The Consul-General of the Republic of Slovenia, having its office in Trieste, also takes part at the working table.

Today, the State secretary Dr. Boris Jesih and the Regional Councillor Eli De Anna agreed about goals and the method of work of the working table as well as about the essential topics which will be discussed at the next sessions of the minority working table. They agreed that the discussion regarding the content would take place both at the political and at the technical level. In the political discussion representatives of powers and minorities will participate while the discussion on technical questions and issues regarding the content will include broader factors (for example, minority economic organisations, radio and TV stations and similar).

The interlocutors agreed for the date of the next meeting, which will be 17 January 2011, taking place in Trieste. At that meeting the stress will be given to cross-border projects between the Republic of Slovenia and the Republic of Italy as both parties agreed that all conclusions adopted at the last supervisory board for the implementation of projects within the Cross-Border Operational Programme between the Republic of Slovenia and the Republic of Italy need to be implemented; the Board’s meeting was held in October of this year in Brdo.

Representatives of both minorities, Slovenian living in Italy and Italian living in Slovenia, will join at the next meeting of the working table.

Topics which Chairmen-in-Office determined as the most important for the discussion for the next minority working tables:

The continuation of cross-border cooperation in the future.

It is in the interest of the FVG region and Slovenia that a support provided for projects of quality from the fields of culture, environment, tourism and economy which include minorities will continue to be given also in the future. It is especially the minorities which have, due to the knowledge of both cultures, languages, legislations and economies, an important role in the enhancement of this cooperation.

Chairmen-in-office agreed that in the future the necessary improvements of the existing projects concerning cross-border cooperation would be discussed in the future financial periods.

The Signal Coverage of Radio and TV Programmes.

Both parties will make efforts, aiming to enrich and open information and cultural centres at the border, to financially support transmissions of minority radio and TV shows and provide for the greatest possible coverage of such shows and programmes. Efforts will be directed into the provision of an optimum coverage of national programmes of the national RTV of Slovenia in territories where Slovenian minority lives in Italy, and the coverage of national programmes produced by RAI in territories in which Italian minority lives in Slovenia.

Minority education.

In the territory where Italian or Slovenian minorities live, minority education is carried out. Such education is efficient under condition that a specific, branched network of minority schools is preserved also in the future. Minority schools are successful and achieve attention and as such they are competitive in a broader European arena; they represent cases of good solutions and examples of good practice in the field of education for countries. The working table will start the discussion regarding the measures for the development (modernisation) of minority schools in the sense of the introduction of new teaching methods and varied education offer.

]]>Press Releasenews-1903Thu, 23 Dec 2010 15:28:00 +0100Minister Žekš at the reception for the Slovenian language lecturer teaching at foreign universitieshttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1903/
Upon the conclusion of the year, the Minister for Slovenians Abroad, Dr. Boštjan Žekš, the Minister...Upon the conclusion of the year, the Minister for Slovenians Abroad, Dr. Boštjan Žekš, the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Gregor Golobič, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Žbogar, organised a reception for Slovenian language lecturers teaching at foreign universities which took place yesterday, 22 December 2010 in Villa Podrožnik, Ljubljana. In 2010 various forms of lectureship for Slovenian language have operated at 56 foreign universities.

Approximately 1,900 university students have taken part in lessons provided by lectureships. At 25 foreign universities a study programme of Slovenian language with the support provided by the lectureship has the status of a regular undergraduate study or a study programme, and at some universities postgraduate studies (Master degree study and a doctoral study) including the study of Slavistics, linguistics, literature or translation are also performed. Approximately 900 foreign students attend programmes of such lectureships. 31 Slovenian lecturers teach at foreign universities.

State Secretary Jesih will visit Slovenian society Lipa in Buzet in Croatia.

At 18:30 hours, Dr. Jesih will attend the event entitled “The end of Remembrance – Carinthian Partisans”. The event will take place in the Pavlo’s house in Potrna (Laafeld)in Austria. The author of the installation, in which Carinthian Slovenians begin to speak about fatal experiences when in partisans, about the post-war period of time and about today’s situation in Carinthia, is an artist Ernst Logar. More about the project on www.garybukovnik.com.

Monday, 13 December 2010

Minister Žekš will lead the first session of the Committee for Science taking place on Monday at 10:00 hours.

Press release will be given at 12:00 hours in the Press Centre of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia (ground floor, Gregorčičeva 20, Ljubljana).

You are kindly invited to support the event in the media.

The Committee for Science is composed of nine scientists and top experts from abroad, representatives of four Universities from Slovenia and four Institutes (National Institute of Chemistry, Jožef Štefan Institute, National Institute of Biology, the Scientific Research Centre SASA). The following Slovenian Ministers shall also participate in the work of the Committee for Science to be performed; ministers responsible for higher education, science and technology, for foreign affairs, for development and European affairs, and the President of the Commission for Relationships with Slovenians in Neighbouring Countries and Abroad. The purpose of the establishment of the Committee is the inclusion of Slovenian scientists and top experts in the preparation of strategic documents and development programmes of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia and its ministries.

At its first session, the Committee will discuss opinions submitted by Slovenian scientists from abroad and given with regard to reforms of the higher education system in Slovenia, the National Higher Education Programme 2011-2020 and the Slovenia’s Research and Innovation Strategy 2011 – 2020.The CVs of the Committee’s Members (Slovenian scientists and experts working abroad) are attached.

On Monday, at 19:00 hours, Minister Žekš will attend the General assembly of the Slovenian Education and Cultural Association taking place in the Cultural Centre KUMST in Žitara vas in the neighbouring Austria. The discussion taking place will be about the Centre’s operation and future cultural activities among Carinthian Slovenians.

]]>Calendar of eventsnews-1885Wed, 08 Dec 2010 14:09:00 +0100Minister Žekš received Brezigar, the President of the Joint Committee http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1885/
Today, Minister Žekš and&nbsp; State Secretary Jesih met the President of the Joint Committee, Bojan...

Today, Minister Žekš andState Secretary Jesih met the President of the Joint Committee, Bojan Brezigar. The meeting took place in the premises of the Office. The topic of the meeting referred to current situation of the Slovenian national minority in Italy.

At 8:00 hours Minister Žekš will attend the 18th regular session of the parliamentary Commission for Relations with Slovenians in Neighbouring Countries and Abroad taking place in the National Assembly. The topic of the session will be “The issue regarding the Slovenian education in the Friuli Venezia Julia region”.

At 11:00 hours Minister Žekš will participate at the presentation of the book Slovenian Town Names in Austria, taking place in the Grand Hall of the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts. Extensive work will be presented by the author, Dr. Pavel Zdovc, and the editor, Dr. Vincenc Rajšp. The event is organised by the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts and the Slovenian Scientific Institute from Vienna.

At 13:00 hours State Secretary Jesih will address everybody present at the solemn opening of the optic cable infrastructure in three Raba villages which will take place at the square in front of the municipal building in Sakalovci.

At 12:00 hours a press conference on the project “Cross-border cultural and media co-operation of the border region between Raba and Mura rivers” will be held, taking place in the Cultural Centre in Sakalovci.

]]>Calendar of eventsnews-1891Wed, 08 Dec 2010 09:49:00 +0100Minister Žekš welcomes the decision of the Senate which is favourable for the Slovenian minority in Italy http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1891/
Yesterday, on 7 December 2010, the Senate of the Republic of Italy adopted the budget proposal for...Yesterday, on 7 December 2010, the Senate of the Republic of Italy adopted the budget proposal for 2011 and for the next three-year period. The adopted budget envisages the financing of cultural activities implemented by the minority in compliance with legislative provisions, in particular in the amount of 5.3 million euros.

The positive decision of the Senate with regard to the Government proposal, as well as the Chamber of Deputies, is a result of strengthened contacts between Slovenia and Italy at all levels and a step forward with regard to efforts made by the Slovenian Government aiming at a systemic arrangement of financing of Slovenian national community in Italy.

The Office of the Government of the Republic of Slovenian for Slovenians abroad welcomes this step made by the Republic of Italy as it is our belief that with a gradual solving of open issues with regard to Slovenian minority it will be possible that the attention of both countries will be directed towards development issues in which an important role is held by both minorities, that is, Slovenian in Italy and Italian in Slovenia.

]]>Press Releasenews-1890Wed, 08 Dec 2010 09:48:00 +0100Public call for tenders for co-financing activities of Slovenian business clubs abroad in 2011http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1890/
On Friday, 3 December 2010, the Public Agency of the Republic of Slovenia for Entrepreneurship and...On Friday, 3 December 2010, the Public Agency of the Republic of Slovenia for Entrepreneurship and Foreign Investments (JAPTI) published a public call for tenders to co-finance activities of Slovenian business clubs abroad in 2011. The call for tenders was published in the Official Gazette of the Republic of Slovenia 97/2010. The aim of the public tender is to support activities of operational Slovenian business clubs in implementing activities linked with the internationalisation of Slovenian economy.

Tender documentation is available on the following web page address:www.japti.si or it may be obtained at the JAPTI seat: Verovškova ulica 60, 1000 Ljubljana, every working day between 9:00 and 12:00 hours.Tender documentation may also be submitted via electronic mail on the basis of the request sent to the following e-mail address:mateja.jarc(at)japti.si, with a reference “JR slovenski poslovni klubi v tujini – razpisna dokumentacija” (JR Business clubs abroad – public tender).

Inquiries with regard to the tender shall be explicitly submitted in electronic form to the following address:mateja.jarc(at)japti.si, with a reference “JR slovenski poslovni klubi v tujini – razpisna dokumentacija” (JR Business clubs abroad – question).

Eligible recipients of funds are active and operational Slovenian business clubs abroad.

Public tender is held open until 3 January 2011 (inclusive) up to 13:00 hours.]]>Press Releasenews-1881Thu, 02 Dec 2010 14:08:00 +0100CALENDAR OF EVENTS: 27 November 2010 – 5 December 2010 http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1881/
THURSDAY, 2 December 2010
Minister Žekš will attend the event upon the presentation of the project...THURSDAY, 2 December 2010

Minister Žekš will attend the event upon the presentation of the project “Boris Pahor – Lojze Spacal, Landscapes of 19th century”.At 18:30 hours Minister will attend the opening of the exhibition dedicated to Lojze Spacal taking place in Galerija Loggia, Koper; at 20:30 hours the theatre performance “ …My Trieste Address”, an adaptation form Boris Pahor’s literary work, will take place in the Koper Theatre. The programme of the event and the description of the project is in the attachment (in Slovenian).

Minister Žekš gave his consent to the position of the Organization Committee’s Member of Honour.It is about the co-operation project in multicultural arena connected by two languages, two cultures. It is a project of two municipalities, Milje municipality and Koper municipality.

FRIDAY, 03 December 2010

Minister Žekš will attend the presentation event of a strategic project entitled Jezik/Lingua (Language) starting at 10:00 hours in Gravisi Palace in Koper.

The project Jezik/Lingua is a part of Cross-Border Co-operation Programme Slovenia-Italy 2007-2010 including umbrella organisations of Slovenian national community living in Italy and Italian national community living in Slovenia with the aim of spreading the knowledge of Italian language and culture in Slovenia and Slovenian language and culture in Italy. For both national communities and for the entire cross-border territory the project signifies and important step in connecting both nations.

The programme is attached (in Slovenian).

State secretary Jesih will attend the awarding of the Rizzi award/Rizzi preisverleihung for model initiatives aimed at inter-cultural co-operation which this year will be awarded to Mr Peter Handke. The event organised by the Association of Slovenian Organisation and Slovenian Education Association will take place in Museum Liaunig (Liaunig (Neuhaus/Suha 41) in Suha in Austrian Carinthia.

Saturday, 04 December 2010

Minister Žekš will attend the celebration and the award-giving ceremony taking place in the Cultural Centre in Nova Gorica at 18:00 hours; the Darko Bratina award will be awarded to the Czech director Miroslav Janek. The event will conclude the project Darko Bratina Poklon viziji/ Omaggio a una visione carried out by Kinoatelje. The programme of the multi-day event taking place in several locations across Slovenia and in Gorizia is attached (in Slovenian).

The presentation of the project Darko Bratina Award was financially supported by the Government Office for Slovenians Abroad.

In memory of its founder, sociologist, film critic and senator Darko Bratina (1942-1997), within the framework of the festival representing Slovenian film productions and entitled in Slovenian Film Video Monitor, Kinoatelje first awarded the above-mentioned award in 1999. Throughout the time the award has responded to changes and today it is demonstrated in the form of a monographic festival incorporated into a broader regional arena.The Festival follows the Bratina’s vision which is based on principles of inter-cultural communication and presents a belief that audio-visual media may be excellent means for understanding the culture and the society of certain nation. The organizers succeeded to attract the most important institutions in the field of film from the broader regional arena which co-operate in the project and in this manner, in the spirit of inter-cultural dialogue, Slovenian culture is presented in Gorizia (Hiša filma), in Nova Gorica (Kulturni Dom), Trieste (Teatro Miela) and Udine (Cinema Visionario). An important part of the project is a professional workshop which is dedicated to the established authors and to the students of film, cultural and media programmes and to representatives of non-governmental organisations. The workshop will take place in co-operation with Media Desk from Ljubljana, Fondo Regionale per l'Audiovisivo from Udine, University in Nova Gorica and Dams Cinema Gorizia – Universita di Udine. With the wish to bring the film culture as closer as possible to younger generations projections of the winning film will be organised for schools from the cross-border arena (Gorizia/Nova Gorica).This year the guest of the festival will be Czech artist Miroslav Janek, who in the capacity of a director, scenarios writer, and director of photography or editor signed more than 40 films. He has received numerous awards for his last film Citizen Havel in which one can learn about a great political and public personality of the Czeck president Vaclav Havel in an intimate and simple manner and was nominated for the best film of 2009 by the European Film Academy.

At 20:30 hours in Teatro Verdi in Trieste, Minister Žekš will attend the premiere of the performance presenting the drama adaptation of the Boris Pahor’s novel Nekropola. The performance is a part of the programme Ljubljana – the World Capital of Books 2010 and is prepared in co-operation of the Ljubljana Municipality and the Mayor of the Trieste municipality, Mr. Roberto Dipiazza. The staging of the novel Nekropola is a work of Boris Kobal and Klavdija Zupan, performed by Pavle Ravnohrib.

]]>Calendar of eventsnews-1880Tue, 30 Nov 2010 16:30:00 +0100Working group for the Strategy on the economic co-operation between Slovenia and Slovenian national community in neighbouring countries until 2010http://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1880/
Today, the working group for the preparation of the Strategy of the Government of the Republic of...

Today, the working group for the preparation of the Strategy of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia on the co-operation between Slovenia and Slovenian national community in neighbouring countries in the field of economy until 2010 met for the third time in the premises of the Government Office for Slovenians Abroad.

The Strategy will be an important platform for strengthening activities in the field of economic co-operation in which minority factors play an important role.

]]>Press Releasenews-1879Wed, 24 Nov 2010 16:27:00 +0100“Matija Čuk’s Fund is an institution worth mentioning”, says Minister Žekšhttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1879/
Today, on 24 November 2010, Minister Žekš visited the educational and employment centre Matija Čuk’s...Today, on 24 November 2010, Minister Žekš visited the educational and employment centre Matija Čuk’s Fund in Opicine near Trieste. Members of the committee presented the operation of their institution and informed the Minister about further projects.

Mrs Jelka Cvelbar, the chief Secretary, and other members of the committee informed the Minister about the history of the Matija Čuk’s Fund which was established in 1979. The Fund, operating under the slogan “Let’s Help Children” is supported by approximately thousand followers in the Friuli Venezia Julia region. The activities are varied and numerous and cover the larger territories of Trieste, Gorizia and Udine.

In addition to the institution located in the centre of Opicine, the Minister also visited a multi-purpose centre located in the Repentabor Street in Opicine which will be dedicated to additional activities aiming at joining young persons of Slovenian origin living in neighbouring countries and young people from Slovenia with people living on the other side of the Slovenia’s border line.

After the visit, Minister Žekš captured impressions summarising them by saying that as regards the operation of this institution it is the matter of providing assistance to children with their by-school activities and, moreover, offering special assistance to children with special needs. “In the entire territory of the Slovenian minority, the provision of by-school activities should be strengthened. It is my pleasure that individuals from Slovenia with many experiences and a lot of knowledge also co-operate in this project,” said Minister Žekš who believes that this project is an example of a serious high-level operation.

]]>Press Releasenews-1873Tue, 23 Nov 2010 10:08:00 +0100“The Challenges in the field of co-operation between young members of Slovenian community in neighbouring countries and the Republic of Slovenia” Round Table Discussionhttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1873/
Yesterday, the Council of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians living in...

Yesterday, the Council of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians living in neighbouring countries discussed with the President of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia, Borut Pahor, challenges in the field of co-operation between young Slovenians living in neighbouring countries and the Republic of Slovenia and the action plan for co-operation and support for young Slovenians in neighbouring countries and abroad which was prepared by the Government Office of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad. By publishing the action plan at its web page the Office invited everybody interested to hold a public debate and to co-operate in forming the final strategic document.

The session continued in the afternoon with the round table on the topic »Challenges in the field of co-operation between young members of Slovenian community with the Republic of Slovenia« which was led by Prof. Žekš. Young people from neighbouring countries and representatives of youth organisations from Slovenia took part at the round table. The purpose of the event was to strengthen the co-operation between young people living in neighbouring countries and Slovenia with the help of programmes and project implemented or supported by Slovenia and European Union.

Round table contributed to the establishment of first contacts among young members of Slovenian community in neighbouring countries and youth organisations in Slovenia. Activities of young persons differ across individual countries.

In Italy young people are active in various fields. Slovenian Education Consortium may boast about successful work in the implementation of the off-school programme »EXTRA«. Under professional leadership of higher secondary school students this programme offers learning possibilities, supplementary and additional education, study directions and after-classes socializing. The Consortium champions decisions made by young people to study in Slovenia where they can get familiar with Slovenian environment and language.

The newly established society of Slovenian economists in which students of economics participate wishes to approach the handling economic issues in a more serious and constructive manner. Youth section Slovenian Community dedicates special attention to political questions and to the position of Slovenians in Italy; with its activity it wishes to overcome old ideological divisions. The Youth Group “Most” (Bridge) is active in the field of culture and young people see it as an opportunity for socializing also through social networks which is supported by the Portal of Slovenians in Italy (www.Slomedia.it). Within the framework of the round table young persons from Italy started to think about co-ordination according to the model established by the Slovenian Youth organisations in Klagenfurt in which all Slovenian youth organisations in Austrian Carinthia and Styria participate.

In Hungary young persons are not organised into a club or society but there are some young Slovenians studying in Slovenia. The presentation of the representative of the Club of Students from Prekmurje in Murska Sobota was especially encouraging; the club is considering establishing, within the Club and with a seat in Monošter, a special section for Raba people. Membership in the section will comprise young Slovenians from the Raba region, university and secondary school students regardless of the place or country of their study. The Club will provide support for young Raba people as regards communication, logistic activities and include them in the implementation of projects, as for example the project of »tutorship« with which they wish to give support to young Raba people in their search for the cheapest transport, literature, awarding scholarships and similar. In Croatia the societies Gorski Kotar and Kulturno prosvetno društvo Bazovica (Cultural and Education Society Bazovica) support young people by including them in the leadership structures.

At the round table young people were considering new forms of co-operation in various fields and also the organisational point of view of their functioning. Common coordination of young members of Slovenian national community in neighbouring countries will be a step forward in achieving some common goals, co-operation will be strengthened also on thee international level. As a part of European youth association of minorities there is a special group for enlargement in which both minorities from Slovenia would be invited.

Statements of representatives of Slovenian youth organisations (Mladinskega sveta Slovenije – Youth Council of Slovenia, Strokovnega sveta Mreže MaMa – Professional Council of the MaMa Network, Mladinskih centrov – Youth Centres and National Agency of the programme Young persons in Action) were encouraging: they will start to include young people from neighbouring countries into their projects financed by Slovenia and the EU. The Government Office of Youth will include young Slovenians from neighbouring countries into their National programme for Youth and encourage the preparation of projects which will include the mentioned co-operation between young Slovenians living in the neighbouring countries and Slovenia.

]]>Press Releasenews-1859Tue, 16 Nov 2010 10:17:00 +0100Implementation of the Italian authorities’ school reform in schools with Slovenian teaching language in Italyhttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1859/
On 15 November 2010, the State Secretary at the Office of the Government for Slovenians Abroad,...

On 15 November 2010, the State Secretary at the Office of the Government for Slovenians Abroad, Dr. Boris Jesih attended a working meeting convened by Dr. Igor Lukšič, the Minister of Education and Sport.

The meeting was also attended by Mrs. Vlasta Valenčič Pelikan, the Consul-General of the Republic of Slovenia in Trieste, representatives of both umbrella organisations in Italy – Livio Semolič on behalf of SKGZ (Slovenian Cultural and Business Association), Ivo Corva on behalf of SSO (The Council of Slovenian Organisation) and Andreja Duhovnik, the Senior Pedagogic Advisor for schools with Slovenian teaching language in Italy. Persons invited were informed about current pressing issues in the field of education with regard to Slovenian teaching language in Italy.

The Ministry of Education and Sport and the Government’s Office for Slovenians Abroad have expressed their concern as to consequences for Slovenian education in Italy which might arise due to reducing funds in the field of education which is carried out by Italian authorities. The standpoint that the schools of language minorities such as Slovenian which are protected also by means of bilateral and international documents should be treated in special manner was given full support. With connection to the education of Italian national community in Slovenia, this principle is pursued by the Republic of Slovenia both in its policy and in practice.

It is particularly important that minority is treated as an equal partner in discussions with state authorities and that no modifications or degradation of rights which have already been achieved take place without the minority’s consent. This especially means that it would be unacceptable for Slovenians in Italy that without their consent schools would be closed or the selection of programmes at Slovenian higher secondary schools in Gorizia and Trieste would be diminished. The entire area with traditional Slovenian settlements should be, in an efficient manner, provided for with an education offer envisaged in bilateral agreements. It is necessary to maintain a rich choice of education programmes offered at higher secondary schools, personnel list at schools for minorities and criteria concerning the formation of classes should be, as a matter of principle, made different in comparison to other general characteristics which are in place for the schools of the majority.

The Ministry of Education and Sport and the Government’s Office for Slovenians Abroad have expressed their expectation that in the Republic of Italy the logic of financial rationalisation will not prevail over the openness and positive direction towards the schooling provided to language and ethnic minorities.

The Republic of Slovenia will continue to strive for a positive attitude and minority-friendly solutions in the field of schooling. Minister Lukšič will also report on the abovementioned issue at the EU Council of Ministers of Education which will take place on 18 and 19 November in Brussels.

The issue concerning the minority schooling will be a central topic at a planned minority consultation table which will be held within the framework of a mixed commission on a common development established between the Republic of Slovenia and Autonomous Region Friuli-Venezia Julia. Slovenian side will be presided by State Secretary Jesih. After the meeting Jesih stated that Slovenian minority should have a vision regarding its education and added that the vision should take into account all the important reforms concerning minority education aimed at its modernisation.

It has been observed that Slovenian schools have not recorded any decrease in the number of students’ enrolment which is viewed as a positive fact, was concluded by Jesih.

]]>Press Releasenews-1863Fri, 12 Nov 2010 10:38:00 +0100PRESS CONFERENCE of the minister for Slovenians abroad dr. Boštjan Žekš and the Minister for Higher Education, Science and Technology, Mr. Gregor Golobičhttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1863/
Slovenian scientists and researches from abroad have been asked to comment on Slovenian science...

Slovenian scientists and researches from abroad have been asked to comment on Slovenian science and on Slovenian university curricula. The responses were rather scarce for different reasons, mostly because of lack of time. The missing responses do not necessarily mean the disappointment to Slovenian science, although some of them have answered a similar questionnaire before.

The responds came mostly from the field of natural and technical sciences and medicine. Half of them belong to the younger generation, the other one to partially retired people, although still active in their institutions. Their responses were well grounded and worthwhile to be considered.

Some change and competitiveness is necessary in the field of university education

The basic idea stressed in all responses was oriented towards the openness of the university level. No changes could be expected as long as English is banned from the university studies.

Officially published invitations for university teachers should become international and enable the chosen candidate adequate remuneration and offer possibilities for research. Foreign students could only be attracted by lectures in English. In the Netherlands for instance 30 % of professors master only English.

The remuneration and status should be based only on results and excellence.

At present we seem to support excellence just verbally and are not aware that science could not be considered a social institution.

The former system emphasized the security of the position and completely excluded any selection. Successful research work has not been paid off, researchers and teachers therefore did not find any satisfaction. The faculties on the other hand did not see any necessity to engage outstanding people.

The result of not being able to engage and adequately pay outstanding researchers from abroad leads to inbreeding and scientific incest.

Therefore the selection should be introduced on all levels, from entering the university up to postgraduate study, post-doctor’s degrees as well as to permanent posts at the University.

In Slovenia University teachers are considered as pedagogical workers, not paid for research work. The pedagogical work consumes most of their time and little is left for research.

Scientist should not be considered civil servants. They should make contracts with Universities and besides take care for additional financial means for research work which should also secure money to support student’s grants.

Evaluation and rotation of university teachers

Slovenian schooling system at lower levels is satisfactory, adequate at university level, even if somewhat outmoded, but postgraduate and doctoral studies are not selective enough and not of top quality.

University teachers should rotate and be seriously evaluated. The aim should be to create an élite which requires a complete reorganization of the high level schooling. High professional schools (visoke strokovne šole) should be excluded, as well as some parts of the faculties, ( part of the economy studies, part of law studies, a great part of sociology studies). The best graduates should be sent for doctor studies to the élite American Universities provided with adequate scholarships. What we need is a small elitist University with up to 9 faculties (according to American criteria).

Concentration to certain research areas

Due to a small national territory research areas could be defined by economy and politics.

The return of Slovenian scientists to Slovenia

All mentioned aspects are also important for the return of Slovenian scientists and researchers from abroad. The present system is not open and the bureaucratic obstacles are considerable

The paperwork is different from abroad, where no differences are made between domestic and foreign applicants and nobody is privileged.

The outstanding Slovenian scientists abroad wishing to return and take a part time position should be satisfactory remunerated from a special fund of at least 100.000 EUR/year which would allow the functioning of a satellite research group in Slovenia.

The cooperation with visiting professors who have some affinity to Slovenia open additional possibilities for international connections.

Examples of good practice

USA, Canada and Japan have developed competitive scientific surroundings. American economy, science and research as well as schooling system have been based on productivity, efficiency and financial capacity. On the other hand, the encapsulated academic community has been a problem in various European countries. Most successful and competitive have been the Scandinavian countries, Germany and the Netherlands. Germany introduced a parallel career pathway parallel to the traditional one by means of which junior professors and research group leaders have been financed from the federal budget offering a possibility to German scientists from abroad to return as independent professors.

The Netherlands introduced different stimulations: raised salaries, more research money and similar. All employees are supposed to negotiate each year about the salary and the status.

Links between science and industry

Elementary task of the Universities has been basis research, results of which could be consumed by industry and together with the Universities transferred to new products.

]]>Press Releasenews-1860Fri, 05 Nov 2010 10:24:00 +0100Common press conference by Minister Žekš and Minister Golobičhttp://www.uszs.gov.si/en/press_centre/news/1860/
At the Office of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad, the Action Plan...At the Office of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad, the Action Plan on Co-operation with Slovenian Scientists and other top Experts was produced and a web directory was prepared, aiming to facilitate co-operation at home and abroad, and contribute to the development of science in Slovenia.

A list with 300 names and addresses was produced, while the published web directory comprises 150 names of those persons who have given their consent to the publication of their data.Minister Žekš sent a letter to some of them in which he had asked them to present their view regarding the arrangement of higher education in Slovenia.14 replies were received, of which 10 are published in the attachment.

Minister Golobič pointed out that at this particular moment, when National Programme of Higher Education for the Period 2011-2020 is being publicly debated, pieces of information delivered by scientist are very important for Slovenia.

Slovenian scientists and researchers who live abroad and their data have been obtained by the Office were requested to deliver their opinion regarding Slovenian science, Slovenian higher education and their proposals with regard to necessary changes.

The summary of their opinions represented by Minister Žekš at today’s press conference are as follows:

1. There is an urgent need to critically evaluate the higher education arena and achieve greater competitiveness.

The basic element pointed out by everybody is the opening of our higher education arena. The urgent need for critical evaluation and greater competitiveness based on actual achievements have also been mentioned.This critical evaluation cannot be obtained until English is expelled from our higher education arena.Calls for candidates for professor posts should be international, and a selected candidate should be ensured the adequate payment in compliance with the prior agreement and given the possibilities to perform research work (one own’s laboratory, colleagues, etc.).Only by offering lessons in English, it will be possible to attract foreign students. In the Netherlands, in the first and the second year, lectures are given in Flemish and English.And from the third year onwards, lessons are held in English only.Approximately 30% of foreign professors speak only English.

2. Salary and position should be based on work achievements and excellency.

It seems that in Slovenia excellency is pursued only with words.People are not aware of the fact that science is not a social service and that the possibility should be given to the best young persons, but not to everybody.In previous system science was protected and only little selection was available; currently, however, there is neither protection nor selection available. No awards are given, young people are not motivated, and research performance does not lead to better payment and better position.Departments and faculties are not awarded for successful research work that is why individuals are not awarded either; individuals are thus not motivated and faculties are not motivated to hire people who are more successful at research work.Faculties cannot offer a competitive salary and position to a successful researcher coming from abroad.Only inbreeding or scientific incest is present.A more severe selection of the best candidates is necessary, both during the enrolment at the university study, during the enrolment to the post-graduate study, when applying for the post-doctorate post and when applying for a permanent employment at the university; moreover, there should be a relatively small number of permanent employments at the university.

In Slovenia people employed at universities are viewed mainly as pedagogic workers.They are not paid nor awarded for their research work.The total share should be covered by means of pedagogic hours, which means, that they do not have enough time for research work.They have to fight to lecture subjects even though they are not suitable lecturers in order to achieve the full salary and departments could not hire an excellent researcher if pedagogic hours are not guaranteed for him/her, and the like.

It is not necessary that scientists are state officials.They have concluded their agreements with the University, in addition they themselves take care to raise, either from state or private funds, additional funds for their research work; and these funds are then used for funding their students (tuition fee) and their own research group.

3. Evaluation and turnover of professors

The majority of persons agrees that our primary and secondary education is not suitable (although in 2000 our secondary school students achieved better results than American students according to “Science Indicators”, although contemporary, that is, in 2010, their results were worse), the undergraduate study is rather old-fashioned, and the post-graduate and doctorate study is neither selective nor of good quality.Professors need to rotate and their work should be critically evaluated.It is necessary to build the elite due to which professional colleges should be excluded from universities. In opinion of some persons questioned, parts of faculties or faculties at which disciplines are pursued (a part of the English study, a part of economics, a part of law study, a great part of social sciences, health care but not medicine) should also be excluded.On the other hand, the best candidates should be motivated to continue their studies at the doctorate level at the best American universities also by means of offering scholarships to the best students.A small elite university would be necessary and within this university to 9 higher education institutions (according to the American criteria) could be operating.The mass enrolment at the university study is not compatible with its international quality.Promotion should present a bottleneck which means that the most capable candidates would be promoted in accordance with the international evaluation and without the classical point system.

4. Focusing on certain research areas

With regard to a small national arena, the focus should be given to individual research fields, which may also be defined with the help of business and politics.

5. Returning of Slovenian scientists back to the Republic of Slovenia

All aspects mentioned are important also in the case of a comeback of some of Slovenian scientists or researchers.In practice, the system at home is not open; there are bureaucratic obstacles which are not present in the case of domestic candidates.Abroad, with the exception of a visa, various candidates, domestic and foreign, submit the same list of documents whereby no one is put into a privileged position. It is also not clear when in his career he goes from one stage to another. The entire arrangement is highly opaque. The publication of new academic posts should be made public and published on a timely basis.

Top Slovenian scientists working abroad who would wish to return partially, could have been enabled to establish a satellite research group in Slovenia by means of providing funds from a special fund (at least 100,000 EUR per year).A transparent system should also be put in place with regard to the comeback of Slovenian scientists working abroad.

Co-operation with visiting professors with any affinity to Slovenia opens up additional possibilities for international relations and their facilitation.

Some scientists abroad hold a wish, contrary to other migrants, to return to Slovenia.

6. Cases of good practice

The USA, Canada and Japan are those countries where competitive arena has been developed in the field of science.American economy, science, research and education are based on productivity, capability and monetary possibilities.Other European countries have also faced conflicting and closed academic arena and people wishing to enter it (or, there are some countries who are still faced with this issue).Scandinavian countries are particularly successful and competitive, as cases of good practice; however, examples of Germany and the Netherlands are highlighted.In its wish to attract good staff from abroad, Germany has created a career path which is parallel and competitive to the traditional one, and through Junior professors programme and research group leaders it is financed centrally from the federal budget. In this manner a path is created on which Germans who have been educated abroad may come to Germany as independent professors.

In the Netherlands the award for successful work is given in various forms:a raise in the salary, smaller pedagogic obligation, more research funds and similar.Every employee negotiates his/her salary and position every year.With regard to the fact that universities are relatively free as regards awarding, successful people will be kept and motivated by a substantial raise in the salary.

7. Linking science and business

The basic tasks of universities are basic research the results of which may be turned into new products by businesses co-operating with universities.It would be necessary to introduce a system to verify useful possibilities for new research results with foreign experts, as it is, for example, done in Israel, or with risk funds, etc.